In a move aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s financial management system, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the appointment of Shamseldeen Babatunde Ogunjimi as the new Accountant-General of the Federation. Ogunjimi’s appointment, which follows a rigorous and transparent selection process, will take effect on March 7, 2025, coinciding with the retirement of the outgoing Accountant-General, Oluwatoyin Madein.
The announcement was made in a statement released on Tuesday by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information & Strategy. The statement highlighted the competitive nature of the selection process, which was designed to ensure that only the most qualified candidate emerged as the nation’s chief financial officer.
A Transparent and Merit-Based Selection Process
The appointment of Ogunjimi underscores President Tinubu’s commitment to promoting transparency, competence, and excellence in public service. According to the statement, the selection process was conducted by a designated committee and involved Directors of Accounts in the Federal Civil Service. The process was carried out in three distinct stages: a written assessment, an ICT proficiency test, and oral interviews.
“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has appointed Shamseldeen Babatunde Ogunjimi as the new Accountant-General of the Federation after a rigorous selection process,” the statement read. “His appointment, approved today, takes effect from 7th March 2025, the same day the incumbent Oluwatoyin Madein will retire.”
Ogunjimi was initially named as Madein’s successor in December 2024 but underwent further assessments to secure the position. The Presidency emphasized that the process was aimed at ensuring that the best candidate was selected to oversee the nation’s public finance administration.
Ogunjimi’s Professional Background and Qualifications
Shamseldeen Ogunjimi, 57, brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the role. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Accountancy from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, which he obtained in 1990, and a Master’s degree in Accounting and Finance from the University of Lagos. Ogunjimi is also a fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) and the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN). These credentials position him as a seasoned professional in financial management and taxation.
Throughout his career, Ogunjimi has demonstrated a strong commitment to excellence and integrity in public service. His appointment places him at the helm of the nation’s public finance administration, where he will oversee the management and disbursement of federal government funds, ensure fiscal accountability, and implement financial policies to enhance transparency in Nigeria’s public sector.
President Tinubu’s Charge to the New Accountant-General
In his congratulatory message, President Tinubu urged Ogunjimi to carry out his responsibilities with integrity, professionalism, and dedication to national service. The President also reiterated his administration’s resolve to strengthen public financial institutions and uphold the principles of good governance in managing the country’s resources.
“The appointment of Shamseldeen Ogunjimi reflects our commitment to ensuring that only the most qualified individuals are entrusted with the responsibility of managing Nigeria’s finances,” Tinubu said. “I urge him to uphold the highest standards of integrity and professionalism in the discharge of his duties, as we continue to work towards building a more transparent and accountable public financial management system.”
Outgoing Accountant-General Oluwatoyin Madein’s Legacy
Oluwatoyin Madein, the outgoing Accountant-General of the Federation, will retire on March 7, 2025, after a distinguished career in public service. During her tenure, Madein played a pivotal role in implementing financial reforms aimed at enhancing transparency and accountability in the management of public funds. Her contributions have been widely recognized, and she leaves behind a legacy of excellence and dedication to national service.
The Role of the Accountant-General of the Federation
The Accountant-General of the Federation is a critical position in Nigeria’s public financial management system. The officeholder is responsible for overseeing the financial operations of the federal government, including the preparation and management of the national budget, the disbursement of funds, and the implementation of financial policies. The Accountant-General also plays a key role in ensuring compliance with financial regulations and promoting transparency and accountability in the use of public resources.
A New Era for Nigeria’s Financial Management
Ogunjimi’s appointment marks the beginning of a new era in Nigeria’s financial management. With his extensive experience and proven track record, he is well-positioned to build on the achievements of his predecessor and drive further reforms in the public financial sector. His leadership is expected to enhance the efficiency and transparency of Nigeria’s financial systems, contributing to the country’s economic growth and development.
Conclusion
The appointment of Shamseldeen Ogunjimi as the new Accountant-General of the Federation is a testament to President Tinubu’s commitment to promoting merit, transparency, and excellence in public service. As Ogunjimi prepares to assume office on March 7, 2025, the nation looks forward to the positive impact of his leadership on Nigeria’s financial management system.
With his wealth of experience and dedication to national service, Ogunjimi is poised to play a pivotal role in advancing the Tinubu administration’s agenda of strengthening public financial institutions and ensuring the prudent management of the country’s resources. His appointment is a step forward in the ongoing efforts to build a more transparent, accountable, and efficient public financial management system in Nigeria.
