The Integrity and Accountability Watch Initiative (IAWI) has strongly criticized the backlash surrounding the appointment of Mr. Shamsideen Ogunjimi as the Acting Accountant General of the Federation (AGF), describing the criticisms as baseless, unfounded, and an affront to his exceptional professional credentials.
In a statement issued on Sunday and signed by Maxwell Obi, the National Coordinator of IAWI, the group emphasized that Mr. Ogunjimi’s qualifications and career achievements rank him among the best in Nigeria’s public finance sector. It called on detractors to reassess their stance, stressing that Ogunjimi’s appointment is based on merit and competence rather than sentiments.
“Mr. Shamsideen Ogunjimi is a distinguished professional whose career spans decades of exemplary service across critical sectors of the Nigerian economy,” the statement read. “His qualifications have been recognized by reputable institutions, including the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN), and the United Kingdom’s Institute of Financial Accountants (IFA). To question his merit is to question the integrity of these globally respected institutions.”
IAWI outlined Ogunjimi’s extensive career, which includes key roles in the military, federal ministries, and other government agencies. As Principal Internal Auditor at the Defence Headquarters and later Chief Internal Auditor of the Nigerian Navy, Ogunjimi demonstrated an exceptional commitment to accountability.
The statement noted, “His career advanced through senior financial management positions at the Federal Ministry of the Environment and the Nigerian Immigration Service, where he ensured the highest standards of fiscal responsibility.”
IAWI further highlighted Ogunjimi’s contributions to major financial institutions, such as the Pension Transitional Arrangement Directorate (PTAD) and the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA). In these positions, Ogunjimi was instrumental in improving treasury management, revenue operations, and financial efficiency, earning widespread trust and respect.
“As Director of Financial Reforms, Finance, and Accounts in the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation, Ogunjimi spearheaded groundbreaking reforms that modernized Nigeria’s financial management systems. His efforts led to greater transparency, efficiency, and the eradication of systemic inefficiencies,” the statement continued.
The group also underscored Ogunjimi’s international contributions, noting his role as Project Accountant for the World Bank-assisted Economic Reforms and Governance Project. According to IAWI, Ogunjimi ensured the effective and accountable utilization of donor funds in line with global best practices.
“Criticizing Ogunjimi’s appointment on any basis other than merit is illogical and baseless. Very few public servants in Nigeria possess the depth and breadth of Mr. Ogunjimi’s experience and credentials. His appointment is a case of a square peg in a square hole, and it behooves all well-meaning Nigerians to support him in this critical role,” the group asserted.
IAWI further emphasized that while other professionals may also hold notable qualifications, no one can be empirically proven to be better suited for the position of Acting Accountant General than Ogunjimi. His track record speaks for itself, and his appointment comes at a critical time when Nigeria’s financial systems require strong, experienced leadership.
The group urged all stakeholders, citizens, and institutions to rally behind Mr. Ogunjimi, stating that his success in the role will lead to significant progress in Nigeria’s financial management systems.
“Supporting Mr. Ogunjimi is not just about supporting an individual but about ensuring the success of Nigeria’s financial architecture. His experience and leadership are exactly what the nation needs at this time,” the statement concluded.
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