Chuks Ugwuodo
Since assuming office as the Accountant-General of the Federation (AGF), Mr. Babatunde Shamsudeen has set in motion a series of bold reforms aimed at modernising public finance management, improving transparency, and ensuring that government resources are optimally deployed for national development. His tenure, though still relatively fresh, is already drawing attention for its focus on efficiency, accountability, and innovation.
Observers note that Shamsudeen inherited an office burdened by long-standing challenges, including inefficiencies in salary payments, concerns over revenue leakages, and the need to align financial operations with modern technological standards. In response, he has pursued a clear agenda centred on reforming internal systems and strengthening trust in Nigeria’s public finance framework.
One of his first priorities has been the smooth running of the Treasury Single Account (TSA), which remains a cornerstone of transparency in government finances. Shamsudeen has worked to tighten controls and close loopholes, ensuring that ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs) fully comply with the TSA directive. His leadership has reinforced the system’s role in reducing the diversion of public funds and curbing wasteful practices.
A significant achievement under his watch has been the streamlining of federal government salary payments. Leveraging the Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS), the AGF has prioritised timely and accurate payment of salaries to civil servants across the federation. Civil servants, who often experienced salary delays in the past, have begun to see a new level of predictability in wage administration. By insisting on proper data capture and tighter payroll management, Shamsudeen is helping to eliminate “ghost workers” and other fraudulent practices that have long strained government finances.
Beyond the payroll system, Shamsudeen has also championed the adoption of digital technology to improve the efficiency of government operations. Recognising the growing role of technology in public finance management, he has initiated plans to integrate advanced analytics and digital monitoring tools into the Office of the Accountant-General. These tools, he says, will help track government transactions in real time, strengthen internal controls, and enhance transparency.
As part of this technology drive, the AGF has been working closely with relevant stakeholders to expand electronic payment systems for government transactions. This includes encouraging MDAs to adopt cashless solutions, a move that not only aligns with broader financial sector reforms but also reduces the risk of corruption and leakages. By digitising processes, Shamsudeen hopes to build a financial management framework that is both robust and future-ready.
Analysts suggest that these reforms are critical at a time when Nigeria is under pressure to mobilise more domestic revenue and cut down on inefficiencies. The Accountant-General has repeatedly stressed that prudent financial management is essential to supporting President Bola Tinubu’s economic reforms, which are focused on stabilising the economy, boosting investor confidence, and unlocking growth opportunities.
Shamsudeen has also shown a strong commitment to capacity building within the Treasury. Under his leadership, new training programmes are being rolled out to equip staff with the skills required to manage digital systems and adapt to evolving financial practices. His view is that building an agile and knowledgeable workforce is essential if the Office of the Accountant-General is to maintain credibility and deliver on its mandate.
The reforms are not without challenges. Resistance to change, bureaucratic bottlenecks, and the sheer scale of Nigeria’s financial management system remain hurdles that Shamsudeen must overcome. However, his early steps suggest a determination to leave a legacy of a more transparent and accountable Treasury.
Civil society groups and policy watchers have so far commended his efforts, urging him to remain consistent and ensure that reforms are institutionalised, rather than dependent on individual leadership. For many Nigerians, the hope is that a stronger, more accountable Treasury will translate into better delivery of public services, improved fiscal discipline, and greater public trust in government.
As he continues to build on his agenda, Shamsudeen’s leadership of the Office of the Accountant-General appears set to play a crucial role in shaping Nigeria’s fiscal future. With his focus on technology, transparency, and timely government payments, he is positioning the Treasury not just as a financial gatekeeper but as a driver of national stability and growth.
