Background of the Study
The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted business operations globally, including the auditing profession. Lockdowns, social distancing mandates, and travel restrictions necessitated significant changes in how audits are conducted, introducing challenges and opportunities for audit firms. In Nigeria, these disruptions highlighted the need for agility and innovation in audit practices to maintain financial reporting quality and regulatory compliance.
KPMG Nigeria, as a leading audit firm, had to adapt to these challenges by embracing digital tools, revising audit methodologies, and enhancing communication with clients. However, the pandemic also exposed vulnerabilities such as cybersecurity risks, reduced access to physical records, and potential compromises in audit quality due to limited face-to-face engagements (ICAN, 2023).
This study examines the impact of COVID-19 on audit practices at KPMG Nigeria, focusing on the challenges faced, the innovations implemented, and the implications for the future of auditing in Nigeria.
Statement of the Problem
The pandemic disrupted traditional audit practices, leading to delays, increased costs, and challenges in obtaining sufficient and appropriate audit evidence. While firms like KPMG Nigeria adopted remote auditing technologies and revised their processes, concerns about the effectiveness and reliability of these practices persist.
Limited access to physical records, difficulties in assessing controls, and increased reliance on technology posed risks to audit quality and stakeholder trust. This study addresses the gap in understanding how audit firms navigated these challenges and evaluates the long-term impact of COVID-19 on audit practices in Nigeria.
Objectives of the Study
To evaluate the impact of COVID-19 on audit practices at KPMG Nigeria.
To identify the challenges and opportunities introduced by the pandemic for audit firms.
To recommend strategies for improving audit practices in the post-pandemic era.
Research Questions
How did COVID-19 impact audit practices at KPMG Nigeria?
What challenges and opportunities did the pandemic present for audit firms in Nigeria?
What strategies can enhance audit practices in the post-pandemic environment?
Research Hypotheses
H₁: COVID-19 significantly disrupted traditional audit practices at KPMG Nigeria.
H₂: Remote auditing during the pandemic posed challenges to audit quality.
H₃: Post-pandemic strategies can improve the resilience and effectiveness of audit practices.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
The study focuses on KPMG Nigeria, analyzing the impact of COVID-19 on its audit practices from 2020 to 2025. Limitations include reliance on secondary data and potential bias in self-reported experiences by audit staff.
Definitions of Terms
COVID-19: A global pandemic caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus that disrupted business operations worldwide.
Audit Practices: Procedures and methodologies used by auditors to conduct financial and operational audits.
KPMG Nigeria: A leading professional services firm providing audit, tax, and advisory services in Nigeria.
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