MODERATING EFFECT OF STRONG INSTITUTIONS ON THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN PUBLIC REFORMS AND ACCOUNTABILITY IN NIGERIAN FEDERAL MINISTRY OF FINANCE AND AGENCIES

Abstract

Accountability in the public sector is crucial for ensuring transparency, trust, and effective governance and in order to enhance accountability, public sector reforms were introduced in Nigeria to curb corruption, improve resource allocation, and foster economic stability. This study examines the moderating effect of strong institutions on the relationship between public sector reforms and accountability in the Nigerian Federal Ministry of Finance and its agencies. The independent variables include IPPIS integration, E-payment system, IPSAS compliance, and GIFMIS technology, with strong institutions serving as the moderator, while accountability is the dependent variable. A survey research design was adopted, with a population of 250 and a sample size of 169. Data analysis was conducted using multiple regression techniques. The findings reveal that strong institutions significantly moderate the relationship between public reforms and accountability, highlighting their critical role in enhancing the effectiveness of financial management reforms. The study found that moderating effect of strong institutions had positive and significant effect on relationship between IPPIS integration, E-payment system, IPSAS compliance, and GIFMIS technology and accountability in Federal ministry of finance and agencies in Nigeria. Based on the findings, the study recommends that the Nigerian government strengthen institutional frameworks by enforcing compliance with financial regulations and improving oversight mechanisms. Further, adopting advanced technology and enhancing transparency in financial reporting will improve accountability. Strengthening collaboration between regulatory bodies and anti-corruption agencies is also essential to sustaining the positive impact of these reforms.