Dr. Habiba Onumoko: A Trailblazing Accountant General Breaking The Barriers in Kogi State »

By Muhammed Nasiru Abubakar from Ajaokuta LGA.

Dr. Habiba’s recent appointment as the Accountant General of Kogi State has garnered attention and sparked discussions about her qualifications and suitability for the role. I have dim it fits to shed light on Hajiya Habiba’s impressive qualifications, extensive experience, and commendable achievements in the field of accounting that qualify her for such sensitive role. While some individuals have made baseless criticisms, it is essential to recognize her exceptional qualifications and accomplishments.

Despite not being in academics, Dr. Habiba possesses a remarkable educational background in Accounting and Finance. She holds a Bachelor of Science (BSc), a Master of Science (MSc), and a Doctorate in Philosophy (PhD), all in Accounting and Finance.

These qualifications provide her with a solid foundation and in-depth knowledge as well as preparedness for the said office. Additionally, Dr. Habiba has obtained series of professional certifications includes but not limited to being a Fellow of the certified National Accountants of Nigeria (FCNA) a Fellow of Forensic Accountant (FFA), a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (FCIT) amongst others. These certifications demonstrate her commitment to professional development and staying abreast of modern Accounting standards.

Dr. Habiba’s extensive experience in various public offices further reinforces her suitability for the role of the State Accountant General. She has held several key positions throughout her career, including serving as the Chairman of the Account Review and Reconciliation Committee of 21 Local Governments in Kogi State. This committee’s membership includes esteemed individuals such as Alh Ahmed Usman Ododo the current Governor-Elect, this has highlighted the trust placed in Habiba’s expertise by Gov Yahaya Bello.

Furthermore, she has successfully served as a Treasurer in Okene local government area where she was made the chairperson of the forum of Kogi state LG Treasurers in 2017 . Due to her uncommon and exceptional performance, her service was transferred to the state where she served as the Director of Finance and Account in the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs. Her dedication and competence in these roles have propelled her to the pinnacle of the civil service career where she served as a Permanent Secretary until her recent appointment.

Dr Habiba is also a philanthropist, she has made unquantifiable impacts in the lives of numerous Kogi State citizens and beyond. Her generosity and magnanimity has placed her tall and earn her many philanthropic awards.

Unfortunately, some individuals have made baseless and ill-informed statements about Dr Habiba. The claim from some individuals that Dr. Habiba is a “barely known person” is unfounded, as she has occupied reputable positions throughout her career, gaining recognition and respect from colleagues, superiors and the entire Kogi State. Their attempt to discredit Habiba by promoting ethnic sentiments is both unfair and irrelevant to her qualifications and achievements and it should be totally condemned and it should be noted that no one is as qualified as Dr. Habiba for the position of the state Accountant General, hence we should all genuinely congratulate Dr. Habiba who is breaking barriers through her plausible and remarkable contributions.

All thanks to the Executive Governor of Kogi State, Governor Yahaya Bello for appointing the first female Accountant General in Kogi State, Dr.Habiba’s appointment as the Accountant General of Kogi State is a milestone and a testament to her exceptional qualifications, extensive experience, and remarkable achievements in the field of public sector accounting skills.