Nigeria’s public sector has long struggled with financial leakages, with payroll fraud being a major contributor. The prevalence of ghost workers—fictitious employees fraudulently added to payroll systems—continues to drain public funds. Conservative estimates place these losses in the hundreds of billions of naira, money that could otherwise be directed towards critical public services such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure.

Tackling payroll fraud is not just an administrative necessity but a moral imperative in a time of economic hardship. With the nation in an economic downturn, every naira must be spent on delivering tangible value. This calls for a decisive embrace of technology to foster transparency, efficiency, and accountability in public sector payroll management.

The Scale of the Problem

The scale of Nigeria’s payroll fraud is staggering, with audits revealing alarming figures over the years:

•    In 2016, the Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS) identified over 70,000 ghost workers, saving the federal government over ₦220 billion annually.
•    State-level audits have unearthed similarly shocking numbers: Kano State uncovered 8,000 ghost workers, Plateau State found 5,000, and Niger State identified 7,000.

These ghost workers exploit loopholes to receive salaries while living abroad, leaving government service, or in some cases, never having existed at all. Beyond the financial losses, such fraudulent practices erode public trust in the government’s ability to manage taxpayer funds effectively.

Read More: From Waste to Wealth: Why Nigerian Business Leaders Must Shift to a Circular Economic Model Today

Current Interventions: IPPIS and Beyond

The introduction of the IPPIS has been a significant step forward in tackling payroll fraud by digitising payroll processes and reducing manual handling. However, despite its successes, the system has limitations:
•    Data discrepancies due to inconsistent data entry.
•    Resistance from stakeholders unwilling to transition to a transparent system.
•    Limited integration with other critical national systems such as the Bank Verification Number (BVN) and National Identification Number (NIN).

For instance, linking payroll systems with BVN and NIN could ensure real-time monitoring of employees’ financial activities, such as overseas travel and leave, preventing fraud. Furthermore, integrating biometric verification and automated personnel audits could enhance payroll accuracy and reduce irregularities.

Building Trust Through Technology

To effectively combat payroll fraud and financial leakages, Nigeria's public sector must embrace advanced technological solutions that provide transparency, efficiency, and scalability. Across industries, technology has proven to be the linchpin for driving operational excellence and reducing resource wastage. Multinationals and large private corporations, for instance, have turned to advanced payroll management systems to save billions annually by automating processes, integrating biometric verification, and enhancing reporting capabilities.

One such example is a robust platform like iPaysuite, which has been successfully adopted by private organisations and multinationals to address unique payroll challenges. Its advanced features—such as real-time employee validation, automated disbursements, and anomaly detection—have helped these organisations not only curb financial leakages but also optimise their workforce management processes. These solutions demonstrate how combining payroll systems with other critical technologies, such as biometric and data integration, can yield significant cost savings and improve accountability.

For Nigeria's public sector, the adoption of similar technologies could be transformative. By leveraging advanced solutions tailored to the specific needs of government payroll systems, the public sector can ensure:
•    Greater Transparency: Automated audits and real-time data visibility to curb discrepancies.
•    Operational Efficiency: Streamlined salary disbursement processes with minimal manual intervention.
•    Accountability: Tools for detecting and addressing anomalies before they result in significant financial losses.

Advanced payroll technologies have already proven their value in the private sector, setting a precedent for what’s possible. The same principles can be applied to the public sector, ensuring not just cost savings but also increased public trust in governance. As global best practices continue to evolve, it is imperative for Nigeria's leaders to align with solutions that drive long-term efficiency and financial prudence.

Read More: Balancing Energy Demands and Environmental Responsibility

Conclusion

The cost of inaction is significant. For every ghost worker discovered, the government saves an estimated ₦1 million annually. Scaling up the adoption of digital solutions could save trillions over time, freeing up resources that can be channeled into critical sectors like education, healthcare, and infrastructure.
When public funds are managed transparently and efficiently, confidence in governance improves, paving the way for sustainable growth. By leveraging advanced technologies, Nigeria can transition to a future where accountability and public trust are the norm, rather than the exception.

Addressing payroll fraud is not just a fiscal responsibility—it is a moral obligation to ensure taxpayer funds are used effectively for the greater public good. By embracing proven digital transformation strategies, the government can safeguard valuable resources, enhance public services, and build a lasting culture of transparency and accountability.
 

Nigeria boasts over 37 billion barrels of proven oil reserves and is one of Africa's largest oil producers. Nigeria's oil and gas industry remains vital to its economy, comprising around 90% of the country’s export revenue and 60% of government earnings.

Despite this, the sector grapples with significant challenges, from price volatility to regulatory shifts, which affect long-term stability and growth. For sustainable development, companies in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector need to adopt robust financial management strategies that can weather the industry's challenges.

This article explores strategic financial management tactics that can drive sustainable growth, positioning firms to stand on par with the best global players in the industry.

1.    Cost Management and Efficiency Optimization

In managing cost and ensuring efficiency, oil and gas companies can adopt:

Lean operations
Adopting lean management principles has been shown to reduce waste by up to 25%, according to a McKinsey report. This operational efficiency is crucial in a high-cost industry, where companies operating with lean strategies report, on average, a 10% increase in profitability.

Technology integration
Investing in advanced technologies, such as data analytics, automation, and artificial intelligence, can enhance operational efficiency. Technologies that improve exploration and production processes, reduce downtime, and enhance supply chain management can significantly lower operational costs. Automation technologies also enable firms to address skills shortages, a significant challenge in Nigeria's oil and gas industry.

Read More: Leveraging the Employee Compensation Act for Worker Safety in the Oil and Gas Industry

2.    Diversification of Investment

Practical means in which an energy company can diversify their investment portfolio includes:

Expanding into renewable energy
With global energy consumption increasingly favoring sustainability, Nigerian oil companies should invest in renewables like solar, wind, and biofuels. A diversified portfolio not only mitigates the risk of oil price volatility but also aligns with global sustainability goals. The global renewable energy market is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.4% through 2030, making this a strategic move for companies aiming to be future-ready (Statista, 2023).

Geographic diversification
Investing in multiple geographic regions can help spread risk. Nigerian oil and gas firms should consider exploring opportunities in other oil-producing countries or regions with less regulatory risk. This geographic diversification can enhance revenue stability and provide new growth avenues.

3.    Strategic Financial Planning

Companies in the oil and gas industry can employ the following strategies in financial planning:

Robust budgeting practices
Effective budgeting practices are essential for financial sustainability. Companies should adopt zero-based budgeting, which allocates resources based on current needs rather than historical expenditures. This approach encourages efficient resource use and helps prioritize strategic initiatives.

Scenario planning
With oil prices ranging from $50 to $120 per barrel in the past decade, scenario planning helps companies model various price scenarios. Using this approach, firms can make informed financial decisions to weather price fluctuations

Read more: Accounting for VAT in Manufacturing Industry: Cashflow and Compliance Challenges

4.    Strengthening Capital Structure

Maintaining a very strong capital structure can be done using the following:

Optimal debt-equity ratio
Companies should strive for a debt-equity ratio that reduces capital costs while allowing for financial flexibility. With historically low-interest rates, companies can leverage debt financing to fund growth initiatives.

Attracting foreign investment
Nigeria's oil and gas industry can benefit from foreign direct investment (FDI). To attract FDI, companies must demonstrate financial stability, compliance with regulations, and a commitment to corporate governance. Establishing joint ventures with international firms can also provide access to capital and advanced technologies. 

As of 2024, the Nigerian oil and gas sector continues to attract significant foreign direct investment (FDI). Recent reports indicate that the sector secured approximately $3.5 billion in FDI in 2024. This investment is driven by joint ventures with international companies and ongoing efforts to enhance the sector’s infrastructure.

5.    Risk Management Strategies

Oil and gas companies can employ the following in managing their exposure to risks:

Hedging against price volatility
Given the cyclical nature of oil prices, companies should implement hedging strategies to protect against price fluctuations. Financial instruments such as futures contracts, options, and swaps can help stabilize revenues and ensure financial predictability.

Regulatory compliance
Staying compliant with local and international regulations reduces the risk of penalties and operational disruptions. Companies should invest in compliance programs and engage with regulatory bodies to stay informed about changes in legislation.

Read More: Balancing Energy Demands and Environmental Responsibility

6.    Environmental Sustainability and Corporate Social Responsibility

This is another key aspect in fostering sustainable growth. Oil and gas companies should engage in:

Sustainable practices
Incorporating environmental sustainability into financial management is critical. Companies should invest in technologies and practices that reduce their environmental impact, such as flaring reduction initiatives and carbon capture and storage. Flaring costs the Nigerian economy $2.5 billion annually, and reducing flaring can significantly cut environmental and operational costs

Community engagement
Investing in local communities through corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives can enhance a company's reputation and build strong relationships. Engaging with communities can lead to a more favorable operating environment and reduced opposition to oil and gas projects.

7.    Talent Management and Development

Oil and gas companies should promote:

Training and capacity Building
The success of financial management strategies relies heavily on the workforce's capability. Investing in training and capacity building ensures that employees are equipped with the necessary skills to navigate the complexities of the oil and gas industry.

Retention strategies
To maintain a competitive edge, companies must implement strategies to retain top talent. Offering competitive compensation, career development opportunities, and a positive work environment can significantly reduce turnover and enhance organizational performance.

Read More: Navigating Global Challenges Affecting Nigeria’s Manufacturing Industry

Conclusion

Nigeria's oil and gas sector brims with potential but faces an array of complex challenges that demand strategic financial management. From optimizing operations to managing risks and prioritizing sustainability, success in this sector requires informed decision-making and meticulous execution.

At Stransact, we have partnered with leading players in the oil and gas industry, leveraging our deep expertise in assurance, audit, and consulting to support their growth and operational excellence. Our experience allows us to provide tailored insights and solutions that address the unique dynamics of this sector, helping companies navigate uncertainties while unlocking value.

As the industry evolves, businesses must align their strategies with global standards and local realities. Whether you're looking to strengthen your capital structure, enhance compliance, or implement robust risk management frameworks, a trusted advisor with a proven track record in the oil and gas space can be the key to driving long-term success.

A circular economy is more than an environmental effort; it is a critical, climate-resilient strategy for securing Nigeria's future. Unlike the traditional linear economy—which follows a "take, make, dispose" approach leading to waste and resource depletion—a circular economy is designed to keep resources in use for as long as possible, minimizing waste by reusing, recycling, and regenerating materials.

This shift is crucial, especially in Nigeria, where environmental challenges are becoming more pressing. Issues like water pollution from oil and gas operations, air pollution from industrial activities, and land degradation due to waste buildup aren’t just distant worries—they’re real problems affecting people’s health, jobs, and our shared natural resources. Transitioning from a linear economy, which often adds to these issues, toward a circular model can help us save resources, cut costs, and ease our environmental footprint.

This article addresses the need to transition to a circular economy, the challenges, and opportunities it presents, and actionable steps for Nigerian businesses to embrace this model.

Linear vs Circular Models

What is a Linear Economy?

Traditionally, Nigeria has followed a linear economy—a “take, make, dispose” approach. It’s a straightforward system where we extract resources, make products, and then discard them when they’re no longer useful. This model has supported our economy, but as Nigeria’s population grows and the demand for resources increases, it’s clear that this way of doing things just isn’t sustainable.

Key Features of the Linear Economy

Resource Extraction: Nigeria’s rich natural resources—oil, minerals, timber—are continuously extracted, but this practice is not without consequences. Over-extraction leads to resource depletion, with the Nigerian Bureau of Statistics (NBS) reporting a 15% decrease in mineral resource outputs between 2010 and 2020.

Production: Our factories and industries work hard to meet consumer demand, but in the process, a lot of by-products and potential resources are wasted. Many of these by-products could be repurposed to create new products, but instead, they’re treated as waste. For instance, in Nigeria’s palm oil processing industry, leftover palm kernel shells and husks are often discarded, even though they could be repurposed as biofuel or raw material for other industries, like cosmetics and animal feed.

In steel manufacturing, slag—a by-product of metal extraction—often goes to waste, but it could be used in road construction or cement production. Similarly, in the food and beverage sector, organic waste from processing fruits, grains, and vegetables could be composted and turned into organic fertilizers, helping reduce the country’s dependence on chemical fertilizers.

Consumption and Disposal: In Nigeria, many products are consumed without thought to what happens after they’re used. Without systems for recycling or repurposing, waste builds up rapidly. Lagos alone generates over 13,000 metric tons of waste every day, most of which ends up in landfills or is incinerated. This cycle of high consumption and poor waste management contributes significantly to air and land pollution and poses serious health risks, with issues like respiratory illnesses on the rise.

Environmental and Economic Impacts

Resource Depletion: Nigeria’s current approach to resources is running on borrowed time. Experts warn that our oil reserves might last only another 50 years at the current rate of extraction. This reality forces us to ask: What will future generations depend on if we drain our resources without a sustainable plan?
Our reliance on gas flaring, which wastes valuable natural gas and pollutes our air, is just one example of how we’re squandering what we have. If we don’t change course and adopt more sustainable practices, we risk leaving behind a future with scarce resources and limited options for those who come after us.

Waste and Pollution: With over 70% of Nigeria’s waste being mismanaged, the resulting pollution contributes to soil degradation, water contamination, and air pollution, with cities like Port Harcourt experiencing the infamous ‘black soot’ phenomenon. These issues aren’t just environmental—they have long-term health and economic costs, too.

Energy Consumption: Nigeria’s reliance on fossil fuels for energy is a significant contributor to global warming, with the energy sector responsible for over 50% of the country’s greenhouse gas emissions.

Economic Inefficiency: The linear economy is economically unsustainable. The World Bank estimates that Nigeria loses $8 billion annually due to poor waste management practices, funds that could otherwise be invested in economic growth and development.

Circular Economy

In contrast, the circular economy presents a sustainable alternative. It emphasizes a "closed-loop" system where resources are continuously reused, repaired, refurbished, and recycled, thereby minimizing waste and environmental impact.

Key Features of the Circular Economy

Designed for Longevity: Products in a circular economy are built to last, embracing durability from the start. Manufacturers consider not only the lifespan of a product but also its environmental footprint—opting for biodegradable options when possible, like paper-based packaging in place of nylon. For items like electronic gadgets, longevity means more than just durability. It includes the ability to repair, upgrade, and reuse devices, reducing the need for frequent replacements.

Reuse and Refurbish: Reusing and refurbishing products can have a significant impact in regions like Nigeria, where the electronics market is growing, and refurbished devices are in high demand. By encouraging reuse and refurbishment, we’re not only extending the life of these products but also making technology more affordable and accessible. This approach aligns with the mindset that items can have a “second life” and that there’s value in what might otherwise be discarded.

Recycling and Upcycling: Recycling initiatives, such as those led by the Nigerian Bottling Company, showcase the potential for converting waste into new, higher-value products, thereby reducing environmental impact.

Sustainable Sourcing: Sourcing materials sustainably can dramatically reduce Nigeria’s environmental impact. More businesses are recognizing the importance of using materials that are renewable, recyclable, or biodegradable, aligning with international standards and reducing reliance on harmful materials. For example, Lagos has implemented a ban on nylon and Styrofoam to combat pollution and foster an eco-friendlier environment.

Benefits of the Circular Economy

Resource Efficiency: The circular economy reduces the need for virgin materials by reusing and recycling existing resources. This efficiency is crucial for Nigeria, where the demand for resources often outstrips supply.

Environmental Impact: By minimizing waste and lowering emissions, the circular economy can help Nigeria achieve its climate goals, including its commitment to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 20% by 2030.

Economic Opportunities: Transitioning to a circular economy opens new avenues for innovation and business growth. The repair, recycling, and refurbishment industries alone could create millions of jobs in Nigeria, contributing to economic diversification.
Consumer Benefits: For Nigerian consumers, a circular economy means access to higher-quality, longer-lasting products, and reduced costs through services like product take-back programs.

Challenges of Adoption

System Transition: Shifting from a linear to a circular economy in Nigeria will require significant changes in infrastructure, business models, and consumer behavior. For instance, the waste management infrastructure needs a complete overhaul to support large-scale recycling efforts.

Economic Viability: Making circular practices economically viable in Nigeria presents a significant challenge. This transition will require substantial investments in technology, innovation, and infrastructure. The initial costs can be high, and businesses may be hesitant to adopt new models without clear financial incentives or support.

Consumer Adoption: Educating and engaging Nigerian consumers about the benefits of a circular economy is crucial for its success. However, this is not without its challenges. Nigeria’s diverse population, with varying levels of education and access to information, makes it difficult to implement a nationwide campaign effectively. Additionally, there is a strong cultural preference for ownership over leasing or sharing, which can be a significant barrier to adopting service-based models

Key Steps to Transition

Develop Closed-Loop Supply Chains: Encourage Nigerian industries to use recycled or renewable materials in production, thus closing the loop on resource use.

Promote Recycling and Resource Recovery: Invest in technologies that can effectively recycle materials or transform waste into valuable resources. The recent introduction of waste-to-energy projects in Lagos is a step in the right direction.

Foster Collaboration: Collaboration between suppliers, customers, and stakeholders is essential. The Nigerian government’s Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) policy is an example of how such collaboration can drive circular practices.

Educate and Engage Stakeholders: Train employees on the advantages of the circular economy and educate Nigerian consumers about its benefits through public awareness campaigns.

Implement and Monitor: Start with pilot projects to test circular economy models on a smaller scale, then develop standards to track progress and impact.

Scale Up: Once successful models are tested, integrate them into broader business practices and supply chains. Engage in policy discussions to support regulations and incentives that promote circular economy practices.

By focusing on these principles and strategies, businesses, governments, and individuals can contribute to a more sustainable and resilient economy that benefits both people and the planet.

Benefits of Transitioning

Economic Efficiency: Potential cost savings through improved resource use and reduced waste management costs.

Innovation and Growth: The transition will drive innovation, creating new business models, products, and services that can contribute to Nigeria’s economic growth.

Environmental Impact: Reduced waste, lower resource consumption, and decreased pollution.

Customer Loyalty: As Nigerian consumers become more environmentally conscious, businesses that adopt circular practices are likely to see increased brand loyalty and customer retention.

Conclusion

The transition from a linear to a circular economy is not just a necessity for a sustainable future; it also demands a fundamental shift in how we approach business and accounting principles. By embracing circular principles, professionals can drive sustainable decision-making, reduce waste, and create long-term value.

At Stransact, we understand the complexities and challenges that come with this transition. Our ESG consulting services are designed to help your business deeply understand and address these issues. We offer tailored solutions that not only solve immediate problems but also position your business to be future-thinking and agile. By partnering with us, you gain access to a team dedicated to staying ahead of future trends and actively shaping them. We are committed to helping you navigate the evolving landscape, ensuring that your business remains resilient, sustainable, and competitive in an ever-changing environment.

Let us help you turn sustainability into a strategic advantage. Together, we can build a future where your business thrives while making a positive impact on the planet.