Accountants Are Strategic Partners in National Development, Ogunjimi Tells African Counterparts

The Accountant-General of the Federation and Chairman of the Association of Accountant-Generals of Africa, Dr. Shamseldeen Babatunde Ogunjimi, has reaffirmed that the role of modern accountants extends far beyond traditional bookkeeping, stating they have become strategic partners in shaping the economic future of institutions and nations.
Dr. Ogunjimi made the declaration while delivering his keynote address at the Africa Accountant-Generals Conference in Accra, Ghana. He explained that the traditional view of accountants as mere bookkeepers no longer aligns with current realities, particularly in a world increasingly driven by digital innovation, data-based decision-making, and financial transformation.
“Accountants are leaders. Our work is not simply to balance books; it is to balance the needs of today with the dreams of tomorrow,” Dr. Ogunjimi stated.
Call for Transparency and Strategic Leadership
Dr. Ogunjimi emphasized that every currency unit entrusted to public officers must ultimately translate into the prosperity of the people, stressing that decisions made by accountants directly affect millions of lives. He urged accountants to remain at the forefront of strategic financial leadership by leveraging data to navigate economic volatility, uncover growth opportunities, and strengthen accountability in governance.
The AGF concluded by calling on accountants across Africa to see themselves not merely as administrative officers but as catalysts for economic growth and national transformation.
Elumelu: Trust is the “Currency of Capital”
Renowned African economist and entrepreneur Mr. Tony Elumelu also spoke at the conference, stressing the importance of deeper public–private sector collaboration to drive sustainable economic transformation on the continent.
Elumelu stated that Africa’s greatest obstacle is not the lack of resources but a deficit of trust, integrity, and credibility.
“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,” he said. Mr. Elumelu called on African accountants to remain vanguards of transformation, especially in advancing digitalization and strengthening accountability across public financial systems.
The report was signed by Bawa Mokwa, Director of Press for the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation (OAGF).