- • Refutes Criticism with Facts and Credentials
- • Says Ogunjimi, A Proven Leader in Financial Reforms
- • He is a Square Peg in a Square Hole; The very right man for the Job- Obi
The Integrity and Accountability Watch Initiative IAWI, has strongly condemned the criticisms surrounding the appointment of Mr. Shamsideen Ogunjimi as the Acting Accountant General of the Federation (AGF), describing them as baseless, unfounded, and an affront to his outstanding professional credentials.
In a statement signed on Sunday by Maxwell Obi, the National Coordinator of IAWI, the group emphasized that Mr. Ogunjimi’s qualifications, achievements, and career contributions placed him among the best in Nigeria’s public finance sector.
The group called on detractors to reassess their views, stressing that Ogunjimi’s appointment represents a case of merit and competence and not sentiments.
“Mr. Shamsideen Ogunjimi is a distinguished professional whose career spans decades of exemplary service across critical sectors of the Nigerian economy. His qualifications have been recognized by reputable institutions, both locally and internationally, 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,” the statement read.
IAWI highlighted that Ogunjimi’s illustrious career includes roles in the military, federal ministries, and pivotal government agencies. As Principal Internal Auditor at the Defence Headquarters and later Chief Internal Auditor of the Nigerian Navy, Ogunjimi demonstrated unparalleled commitment to accountability.
“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.
“Notably, Ogunjimi also made significant contributions to key financial institutions such as the Pension Transitional Arrangement Directorate (PTAD) and the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA). In these roles, he was instrumental in treasury management, revenue operations, and the enhancement of financial efficiency, earning the trust and respect of stakeholders.
“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 contributed to greater transparency, efficiency, and the eradication of systemic inefficiencies.
“On the global stage, Ogunjimi served as Project Accountant for the World Bank-assisted Economic Reforms and Governance Project, where he ensured the effective and accountable utilization of donor funds. His role in this international initiative further underscores his capability to manage complex financial systems 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.
The statement further noted that while other professionals may also hold enviable qualifications, no one can be empirically proven to be better suited for the position of Acting Accountant General of the Federation than Ogunjimi. His track record speaks for itself, and providence has placed him in this position to contribute to the nation at a crucial time.
The group however, called on all stakeholders, citizens, and institutions to support Mr. Ogunjimi in his assignment, noting that his success will translate into progress for Nigeria’s financial systems.
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