IMPACT OF BUDGETARY CONTROL ON FINANCIAL ACCOUNTABILITY IN NIGERIAN PUBLIC INSTITUTIONS

Abstract

This study examined the impact of budgetary control on financial accountability in Nigerian public institutions. The research was motivated by persistent concerns over weak fiscal discipline, budget deviations, and accountability gaps in the management of public funds. A descriptive survey research design was adopted, and data were collected from 342 respondents drawn from selected public institutions across Nigeria. The study focused on key dimensions of budgetary control, including budget planning, budget implementation, budget monitoring, and budget evaluation, and their influence on financial accountability. Data collected were analysed using descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, and multiple regression analysis. The findings revealed a strong positive relationship between budgetary control and financial accountability. Regression results indicated that budgetary control significantly explains variations in financial accountability in public institutions. Among the components, budget monitoring had the most significant influence, followed by budget implementation, budget planning, and budget evaluation. The study concluded that effective budgetary control systems enhance transparency, improve compliance with financial regulations, and reduce financial mismanagement in Nigerian public institutions. However, challenges such as weak enforcement mechanisms and inconsistent application of budgeting procedures still limit optimal accountability outcomes. The study recommended strengthening real-time budget monitoring systems, improving adherence to approved budgets, enhancing capacity building for financial officers, and institutionalising regular budget evaluation processes to improve accountability in the public sector.