Fraud and Forensic Accounting Education: Prospects and Challenges in Nigeria

This study first investigates the availability of fraud and forensic accounting (FFA) education in Nigeria. The paper then analyses the perceptions of academics and practitioners on the demand for, relevance and integration of, FFA in Nigeria. The data obtained through a questionnaire survey was analysed using descriptive statistics, Kruskal-Wallis (K-W) and Chi-Square tests. The results (i) indicate an increasing market demand for fraud examiners and forensic accountants; and (ii) suggest that FFA be given adequate coverage in the accounting curriculum in response to market demand. On the benefits of FFA education and training, there is virtual unanimity that it will: (i) widen the employment horizon and opportunities for graduates; (ii) help to combat fraud, corruption and financial crimes, (iii) strengthen the credibility of financial reporting, and (iv) help to rebuild investors’ confidence and trust in financial reports. The findings also support integration at both the undergraduate and postgraduate levels. The policy implication draws attention to regulatory importance and expediency of integrating FFA education into the accounting curriculum. This calls for regulatory initiative in developing the Benchmark Minimum Academic Standards (BMAS) for FFA programmes at the undergraduate and postgraduate levels.