Zaharaddeen Ishaq Abubakar | Katsina Times | Tuesday, 8 July 2025
Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umar Radda, has called on professional accountants to play a more active role in promoting transparency, integrity, and good governance across the country.
The governor made the call on Tuesday while addressing participants at the Mandatory Continuing Professional Development (MCPD) programme of the Association of National Accountants of Nigeria (ANAN), held at the Continental Events and Sports Centre in Katsina.
The conference, which brought together financial experts from across Nigeria, was themed: "Taxation and Compliance: Strategies for Professional Integrity in the Era of Digital Transformation."
In his keynote speech, Governor Radda described the accounting profession as more than just a career, but rather a critical pillar for justice, accountability, and sustainable national development.
“As key players in the economic system, your role in improving public governance cannot be overstated. You are the foundation of integrity and transparency in public service,” the governor emphasized.
He also outlined key anti-corruption initiatives under his administration, including the establishment of the State Anti-Corruption Agency, the Fiscal Sustainability Commission, implementation of the Treasury Single Account (TSA), and enrolment in the Open Government Partnership (OGP).
National ANAN President, Chief Hajiya Rakiya Talatu Kashimi, FCNA, commended the Katsina State Government for its consistent support to the association and expressed satisfaction with the state’s progressive governance trajectory.
“Under Governor Radda’s leadership, Katsina has witnessed significant advancements in economic reforms, security, healthcare, education, and digital transformation. His visionary leadership is reshaping the state’s future,” she stated.
She further urged professional accountants to embrace modern technology, including Artificial Intelligence and digital accounting systems, to reduce errors and enhance tax compliance and regulatory accuracy.
Chairman of the MCPD Committee, Professor Hassan Ibrahim, explained that the annual training programme rotates across Nigeria’s geopolitical zones, aimed at enhancing the knowledge and skills of ANAN members. He noted that this year’s focus on taxation aligns with the growing emphasis on fiscal reform and public financial accountability.
Katsina State ANAN Chairman, Shu’aibu Aliyu, expressed appreciation to Governor Radda for sponsoring the event and continuously supporting the association. He noted that for over two decades, the Katsina State Government has shouldered the cost of MCPD training for its members.
“Katsina is one of the few states deeply committed to the growth of the accounting profession. Members of ANAN have been appointed to key positions such as State and Local Government Auditors-General,” he said.
A special session of the programme was dedicated to honouring Chief Hajiya Rakiya Talatu Kashimi, the 14th ANAN President, in recognition of her achievements and visionary leadership. The session also celebrated Katsina’s rich cultural heritage as a historical hub of Hausa civilization.
One ANAN governing council member remarked:
“Governor Radda didn’t just attend this event—his presence and ongoing support for peace, industrial growth, and agricultural development across the state’s 34 LGAs give this gathering additional significance.”
The conference concluded successfully, with participants expressing satisfaction over the knowledge gained in areas of taxation, legal compliance, and digital innovations in accounting.
PHOTO CAPTION:
Governor Dikko Umar Radda delivering his address at the ANAN MCPD Conference in Katsina. With him are: Chief Hajiya Rakiya Talatu Kashimi (ANAN President), Dr Kayode Olushola Fasua, FCNA (ANAN CEO), Prof. Hassan Ibrahim (MCPD Chairman), and other dignitaries.
