Civil society and rights groups have sharply criticized the Accountant General of the Federation and finance commissioners from all 36 states for conducting a workshop in the UK, at a time of economic mismanagement sensitivity. The Public Financial Management and International Public Sector Accounting Standards workshop took place at Copthorne Tara Hotel, London, attracting officials for discussions on IPSAS and accountability amidst Nigeria’s struggle with high inflation and foreign exchange crises.
Workshop Details and Focus
The AGF’s Office conducted a workshop on Public Financial Management and IPSAS in London, UK, at Copthorne Tara Hotel from March 4 to March 9, 2024. This event gathered finance commissioners and officials, focusing on accountability through IPSAS over five days.
Participants explored IPSAS’s role in enhancing accountability, alongside accounting in hyperinflationary settings and public financial management challenges in Nigeria, including budget implementation issues.
Economic Prudence vs. Traditional Training Methods
Community leaders and human rights groups criticize the Accountant General lacking economic sensitivity amid Nigeria’s financial struggles. They advocate for cost-effective, local training solutions, emphasizing fiscal responsibility.
Yet, the AGF’s Office justifies the trip, noting its annual occurrence, UK facilitators’ expertise, and the National Economic Council’s support. Critics counter, advocating for in-country, digital methods to cut costs. Amidst the criticism, the workshop spotlights a broader issue: favoring recurrent expenditures over capital investments in government budgeting practices.
The controversy reflects a broader debate on reducing government spending versus adhering to conventional training formats. Unfortunately, Nigeria, amid significant economic challenges, weighs global expertise against fiscal discipline, stressing flexible, economically savvy governance strategies.
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