Federal University of Lafia and ANAN University Sign Memorandum of Understanding to Boost Accounting Education and Research

The Federal University of Lafia (FULafia) and ANAN University — the academic arm of the Association of National Accountants of Nigeria — formalised a partnership through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) designed to enhance accounting education and research at both institutions.

The agreement was signed during a courtesy visit by a delegation from ANAN University to FULafia’s Vice‑Chancellor, Professor Shehu Abdul Rahman, on 28 November 2025. The delegation was led by Dr. Tijani Ahmed Ajayi, Director of Akaro Centre and Head of the Department of Accounting at FULafia, who emphasised that the collaboration aims to provide students with practical, hands‑on accounting knowledge and to strengthen the research capacities of both universities.

Dr. Ajayi noted that the MoU aligns with Vice‑Chancellor Abdul Rahman’s objective of fostering stakeholder engagement to promote research and academic partnerships. “We want our students to have first‑hand knowledge of accounting applications… Accounting is more than bookkeeping; through this partnership we can catch them young and place them on a professional path even before graduation,” he said.

Professor Abdul Rahman welcomed the delegation and reaffirmed FULafia’s commitment to academic partnerships, observing that “no university can operate in isolation… Universities seek support from other organisations.” He highlighted that his longstanding professional relationship with ANAN University’s Vice‑Chancellor, Professor Musa Inuwa Fodio — dating back to their time together at Nasarawa State University, Keffi — had evolved into an institutional collaboration.

Key provisions of the MoU include sharing of facilities, staff and student exchanges, joint conferences and workshops, and periodic reviews to ensure effective implementation. “An MoU must not just exist on paper; it must be implemented… We will review challenges and performance and adjust where necessary,” Abdul Rahman added.

Mr. Kpun Faithful Denigiyefa, Registrar of ANAN University, speaking on behalf of Professor Fodio, affirmed ANAN University’s dedication to accounting and allied disciplines and its capacity to contribute technical expertise — particularly in accounting software and digital applications — to the partnership. “When it comes to accounting software and digital applications, ANAN University will serve as a hub of experts from academia, the private sector and corporate law,” he said, noting that the MoU formalises a relationship already underway.

Attendees at the signing ceremony included FULafia Registrar Malam Nuradeen Abdu, ANAN University Deputy Vice‑Chancellor Professor Adebisi Joseph Femi, and FULafia Legal Directorate officer Barr. Olumipe Adikwu.

The collaboration is expected to broaden educational opportunities for students and foster joint research initiatives that enhance the quality of accounting education in Nigeria.