In the realm of corporate governance, the role of finance professionals has never been more critical. With increasing scrutiny on financial transparency and accountability, organizations are looking to financial leaders who not only understand the technical aspects of accounting but also contribute to the ethical and strategic oversight that drives corporate success.
Francis Ohaegbu, a renowned Chartered Accountant with years of experience in financial management, corporate governance, and reporting, is a thought leader in this evolving field, having worked with MTN for several years.
Ohaegbu’s approach to corporate governance is centered around one key principle: integrity.
“At the heart of every strong organization is a commitment to transparency and ethical behavior. Corporate governance is not just about adhering to regulations, it is about fostering an environment where integrity is the cornerstone of decision-making,” he explains.
Drawing from his extensive background in both local and international accounting practices, Ohaegbu has seen firsthand how businesses can either thrive or falter depending on the strength of their governance structures.
Ohaegbu has worked with companies in various industries to help them build financial systems that not only comply with regulatory requirements but also exceed expectations for transparency and accountability.
“Good governance starts with sound financial practices,” he asserts. “When a company is transparent in its financial dealings, it gains the trust of its investors, customers, and employees. This trust, in turn, fuels growth and stability.”
The core of Ohaegbu’s philosophy lies in the establishment of internal controls. These controls are not merely procedural, they serve as safeguards that protect a company from both internal and external risks.
“For internal controls to be effective, they must be designed to fit the unique needs of each organization. One-size-fits-all solutions rarely work,” Ohaegbu says. He stresses the importance of customizing controls to match the size, structure, and industry-specific risks of a business.
This customization allows companies to address vulnerabilities directly and implement the most effective governance strategies. Ohaegbu also champions the idea that corporate governance goes beyond just financial compliance.
“It is about creating a culture where the leadership team sets the tone for the entire organization. When executives lead by example, they establish ethical behavior as the norm,” he says. By fostering this culture, Ohaegbu believes that businesses can build strong, sustainable governance systems that encourage accountability and ethical decision-making at every level.
As a member of several prestigious accounting organizations, including the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) and the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ACA), Ohaegbu is an advocate for continuous professional development in the accounting field.
He believes that accountants must evolve with the times, continuously learning new skills and understanding emerging trends in corporate governance. This adaptability is crucial as businesses face an increasingly complex regulatory environment.
For Ohaegbu, the future of corporate governance lies in the intersection of strong ethical standards and advanced financial technologies. “As technology advances, so too should our approach to governance. We must use technology to enhance transparency, streamline processes, and ensure that our financial data is more accessible and reliable than ever before,” he concludes.
Ohaegbu’s contributions to corporate governance have made him a respected voice in the world of accounting and finance. His expertise is shaping the future of financial oversight, ensuring that organizations not only meet regulatory standards but also build a foundation of trust and integrity that drives long-term success.
