THE DIRECTOR of Internal Audit and Compliance at the Institute of Human Virology Nigeria (IHVN), Dr. Johnson Obilikwu, has said that strong internal audit and compliance systems are essential to building a credible health sector, safeguarding donor resources, and improving healthcare delivery in Nigeria.
Speaking with National Record, Obilikwu said countries seeking stronger health systems must prioritize accountability to ensure that resources meant for health interventions are used efficiently, transparently, and for their intended purposes.
“Strong health systems require strong accountability,” he said. “Internal audit and compliance ensure that every resource entrusted to an organization delivers maximum impact, strengthens donor confidence, and ultimately improves health outcomes.”
He explained that beyond financial oversight, internal audit and compliance help organizations manage risks, strengthen governance, comply with regulatory and donor requirements, and support informed decision-making.
On grant mismanagement, Obilikwu said preventing financial irregularities begins with strong internal systems.
“The best way to protect donor funds is to build strong systems before problems arise. Prevention is always more effective and less costly than correction,” he said.
According to him, IHVN has instituted preventive and detective controls, including pre- and post-transaction reviews, regular compliance monitoring, and financial oversight across its offices and implementing partners. These measures, he noted, have reduced audit queries, strengthened donor confidence, and enhanced the Institute’s capacity to manage grants effectively.
He added that donor confidence is earned through transparency, accountability, and consistent results, stressing that strong internal controls reduce fraud and waste while ensuring that health programmes achieve their intended impact.
Obilikwu emphasized that strengthening governance and accountability is critical to building resilient health systems and advancing national development. He said every well-managed health investment ultimately translates into better healthcare services and improved outcomes for Nigerians.
