AS NIGERIA works to strengthen its healthcare system and sustain donor confidence, the Institute of Human Virology Nigeria (IHVN) has warned that weak financial oversight, fraud, and non-compliance continue to threaten the effectiveness of public health programmes.
The Director of Internal Audit and Compliance at IHVN, Dr. Johnson Obilikwu, said robust internal control systems are indispensable to safeguarding health investments and ensuring that resources intended for patient care are used transparently and efficiently.
Speaking with National Record, Obilikwu said fraud flourishes where accountability mechanisms are weak, stressing that effective internal controls foster a culture of transparency, integrity, and responsible resource management.
He urged health institutions to adopt a comprehensive risk-based approach that integrates prevention, detection, and response strategies. According to him, critical safeguards include well-defined policies and procedures, segregation of duties, transparent procurement processes, approval hierarchies, periodic risk assessments, internal audits, compliance reviews, staff capacity building, and confidential whistleblower channels.
Obilikwu also underscored the growing role of technology in strengthening financial accountability and improving oversight of health programmes.
“Technology plays a critical role in enhancing transparency and monitoring financial transactions,” he said. “At IHVN, our priority is to strengthen systems rather than merely identify faults. By detecting control weaknesses early and recommending corrective actions, we help prevent issues before they affect programmes, beneficiaries, or donor confidence.”
He acknowledged that maintaining consistent financial and operational standards across multiple health facilities and implementing partners remains a significant challenge, particularly where technical capacity differs. Addressing these gaps, he said, requires continuous training, mentoring, supportive supervision, standardized reporting systems, and close collaboration with implementing partners.
Obilikwu noted that sound financial governance has a direct impact on healthcare delivery, ensuring that medicines, laboratory supplies, medical equipment, and other essential resources reach health facilities and communities as intended.
“When resources are managed effectively, healthcare providers can focus on delivering quality services to patients,” he said. “Good governance is not just about financial integrity—it is about ensuring that every available resource contributes to saving lives and improving public health.”
He added that strong compliance systems help reduce waste and fraud, promote value for money, and expand the reach of health interventions, making internal controls a critical pillar of resilient health systems and sustainable healthcare development.
