The Role of Forensic Accounting in Addressing Mismanagement in Nigeria’s Universal Basic Education Programme
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Background of the Study
Forensic accounting plays a critical role in detecting and preventing financial mismanagement and fraud within public institutions. In Nigeria, the Universal Basic Education (UBE) programme is a pivotal initiative designed to provide free, compulsory, and quality education at the primary and junior secondary school levels (Ogunleye & Faleti, 2023). However, despite the substantial budgetary allocations made for the programme, there have been consistent reports of financial mismanagement, embezzlement, and corruption, which undermine the programme’s effectiveness. This mismanagement is particularly evident in the allocation and disbursement of funds to local governments and schools, where a lack of transparency and accountability has been identified (Ojo & Alabi, 2024).
The UBE programme is a federal initiative intended to enhance the educational outcomes of children across Nigeria. However, its success has been impeded by issues such as fund diversion, incomplete projects, and the inefficiency of monitoring mechanisms. Forensic accounting, which involves the application of accounting principles and investigative techniques to identify financial discrepancies, is crucial in uncovering these financial irregularities (Nwogugu & Onu, 2025). By focusing on identifying fraud and mismanagement, forensic accountants can provide valuable insights into the causes of inefficiencies in the UBE programme, suggesting reforms to improve its financial management.
The increasing recognition of forensic accounting as an important tool in public sector financial oversight necessitates an in-depth examination of its role in addressing mismanagement in the UBE programme. Understanding the application of forensic accounting within this context could contribute to the improvement of the programme’s financial accountability and its overall effectiveness in achieving its educational objectives.
Statement of the Problem The Universal Basic Education programme in Nigeria has faced persistent challenges related to the mismanagement of funds, which have hindered its ability to deliver quality education. Reports of financial discrepancies, fraudulent activities, and a lack of effective financial controls within the programme suggest the need for improved financial monitoring systems. Forensic accounting, which combines investigative skills with accounting expertise, offers a potential solution to these challenges. Despite its proven efficacy in uncovering fraud and mismanagement in various sectors, the role of forensic accounting in addressing financial mismanagement within the UBE programme remains underexplored. This study seeks to address this gap by examining how forensic accounting can be utilized to identify and address financial mismanagement in the programme, ultimately enhancing its accountability and transparency.
Objectives of the Study
- To assess the extent of financial mismanagement within Nigeria’s Universal Basic Education programme.
- To evaluate the role of forensic accounting in detecting and preventing financial mismanagement in the UBE programme.
- To propose measures for improving the financial accountability of the UBE programme through forensic accounting.
Research Questions
- To what extent has financial mismanagement affected the Universal Basic Education programme in Nigeria?
- How effective is forensic accounting in identifying financial mismanagement in the UBE programme?
- What measures can be implemented to enhance financial accountability in the UBE programme through forensic accounting?
Research Hypotheses
- Financial mismanagement in the Universal Basic Education programme has a significant negative impact on its overall effectiveness.
- Forensic accounting plays a significant role in identifying financial mismanagement within the UBE programme.
- Implementing forensic accounting techniques in the UBE programme will improve financial accountability and reduce mismanagement.
Scope and Limitations of the Study This study will focus on the financial operations of the Universal Basic Education programme in Nigeria, specifically the role of forensic accounting in identifying and addressing financial mismanagement. The scope will cover the period 2023–2025 and include an analysis of financial reports, audits, and forensic investigations. However, the study may be limited by the availability of financial records and the cooperation of relevant stakeholders, as some financial information may be sensitive or confidential.
Definitions of Terms
- Forensic Accounting: A specialized field of accounting that involves the application of accounting techniques and investigative skills to detect and prevent fraud and financial mismanagement.
- Universal Basic Education (UBE) Programme: A Nigerian government initiative aimed at providing free, compulsory, and quality education at the primary and junior secondary school levels.
- Mismanagement: The inefficient or dishonest use of resources, often leading to financial losses, fraud, or corruption.
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