President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has officially appointed Shamsedeen Babatunde Ogunjimi as the new Accountant General of the Federation (AGoF), following a meticulous and competitive selection process. The announcement was made on Monday, with the appointment taking effect on March 7, 2025, the same day the incumbent AGoF, Oluwatoyin Madehin, is expected to retire.
In a statement released by Tinubu’s media aide, Bayo Onanuga, the president highlighted that Ogunjimi’s appointment comes after a thorough process that involved multiple stages, including written assessments, ICT proficiency tests, and oral interviews. This process, designed to ensure the selection of the most qualified candidate, reflects President Tinubu’s commitment to promoting transparency, excellence, and competence in the nation’s public service positions.
Ogunjimi, who is 57 years old, was first named as Madehin’s successor in December 2024, and his appointment was confirmed after a rigorous evaluation. His academic qualifications and professional background played a significant role in his selection.
Shamsedeen Ogunjimi’s career in accounting and finance has spanned several decades, making him a well-qualified choice for the position. Ogunjimi graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Accountancy from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, in 1990. He later pursued a Master’s in Accounting and Finance at the University of Lagos, furthering his expertise in the field.
Ogunjimi is a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) and the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN), two of the most prominent professional bodies in the country. His membership in these prestigious institutions speaks to his deep knowledge and experience in the accounting and taxation sectors, which are crucial for the role of Accountant General of the Federation.
Prior to his appointment, Ogunjimi has held various roles in the public sector and the accounting profession. His extensive career in the Federal Civil Service, especially in finance and accountancy roles, has equipped him with the necessary skills to handle the complex responsibilities of managing Nigeria’s public finances.
One of the standout features of Ogunjimi’s appointment is the rigorous selection process through which he was chosen. According to the statement, the selection committee conducted a comprehensive evaluation that included three main stages: a written assessment, an ICT proficiency test, and oral interviews.
The written assessment tested candidates’ knowledge of the financial management systems and policies of Nigeria, while the ICT proficiency test ensured that candidates could use modern technology, which has become essential in public sector financial management. The oral interviews allowed the committee to assess candidates’ communication skills, leadership abilities, and overall suitability for the role.
The involvement of Directors of Accounts in the Federal Civil Service further highlights the transparent nature of the selection process. This ensures that the process was not only fair but also based on merit, allowing the most qualified individuals to emerge.
“The process underscores President Tinubu’s commitment to promoting transparency, excellence, and competence in key public service positions,” the statement added.
President Tinubu expressed his congratulations to Ogunjimi upon his appointment, highlighting that he expects him to carry out his duties with professionalism and dedication. Tinubu also urged the new Accountant General to approach his work with integrity and to serve Nigeria diligently.
“President Tinubu congratulates Ogunjimi on his appointment and urges him to discharge his duties in the service of Nigeria with integrity, professionalism, and dedication,” the statement from Bayo Onanuga said.
This appointment is seen as part of Tinubu’s efforts to ensure that key positions in his administration are filled with competent individuals who can contribute to the government’s drive for efficient public service management and good governance.
