The Accountant-General of the Federation and Chairman of the Association of Accountant-Generals of Africa, Dr. Shamseldeen Babatunde Ogunjimi has called for a renewed recognition of accountants as strategic partners in Africa’s development agenda, emphasizing that their roles have expanded far beyond traditional bookkeeping.
Speaking at the Africa Accountant-Generals Conference held at the Accra International Conference Centre, Dr. Ogunjimi said the modern accountant is now a vital pillar in national planning, economic forecasting, transparency, and financial governance.
“Accountants are leaders. Our work is not simply to balance books; it is to balance the needs of today with the dreams of tomorrow,” he declared.
According to a statement signed by Bawa Mokwa, Director, Press in the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation (OAGF), on Wednesday in Abuja, Dr Ogunjimi pointed out that in an era driven by digital innovation and data-driven decision-making, accountants have become crucial advisors and custodians of integrity.
According to Ogunjimi, every Cedi, Franc, Naira, or Dollar managed by public officers must translate into real improvements in citizens’ lives.
The conference attracted senior accounting professionals and top government officials from across the continent, creating a platform to assess the evolving demands placed on public finance managers.
Dr. Ogunjimi noted that accountants now play indispensable roles in strategic planning, risk management, financial forecasting, and navigating complex regulatory environments.
He urged his colleagues to remain at the forefront of financial leadership by leveraging data to manage economic uncertainties, identify growth opportunities, and promote accountability in governance.
Concluding his address, he challenged accountants across Africa to embrace their identity not merely as administrative officers but as catalysts for national transformation.
Earlier, distinguished economist and entrepreneur Mr. Tony Elumelu commended Dr. Ogunjimi for convening the high-level gathering.
Elumelu said he attended not only as a business leader but also as a firm believer in Africa’s untapped potential.
He underscored the importance of stronger public–private collaboration to unlock sustainable economic growth.
According to him, Africa’s biggest challenge is not a scarcity of resources but a deficit of trust, integrity, and credibility in public finance.
“Trust is built through predictability, transparency, and partnership. Trust is the currency of capital. Excellence in public finance is not a luxury—it is a necessity,” Elumelu said, urging accountants to champion digitalization and accountability across public institutions.
The conference concluded with a shared commitment to strengthen financial leadership and expand the strategic influence of accountants in advancing Africa’s development.
