Education is underrated in Nigeria – Ogidiaka 

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Ovie Ogidiaka, a PhD candidate at the Nigeria Defence Academy, a chartered accountant, a former accounting lecturer, and an accountant at Greenville LNG, discusses a variety of interesting facts about pursuing a PhD in Nigeria with StoriesByAde. 

 

1. Have you always wanted to study up to the PhD level, and what inspired this?

Education is often said to be the best way to escape poverty. I love education, and I grew up reading with so much curiosity and enthusiasm. 

And because I have an inquisitive mind, reading became a medium to illuminate my mind from the darkness that comes with ignorance. Besides, I have always wanted to be a renowned professor in the field of accounting, which became my extra booster.

 

2. Can you walk us through the process and challenges of getting a PhD in Nigeria?

There is no hard-and-fast rule to the process in Nigeria. It all depends on the personality of your supervisor(s). 

Some individuals are difficult to work with, while others are more simplistic in their approach. But on the part of the student, consistency, persistence, focus, patience, and determination are the attributes the student must possess to succeed.

 

3. For years, you were recognized as a lecturer in accounting, but now that you practice as a full-time accountant in an office, how did that come about?

Dynamism is a part of human characteristics. The drive to try new things and break new ground is innate.

The urge to be a pure breed in terms of mixing theory and practice was a major factor that influenced my decision.

 

4. In your opinion, what is the value placed on education in Nigeria?

Education is underrated in Nigeria. 

That is why education is underfunded year in and year out in the national budget. The government failed to realize that the best way to lift a nation from poverty to prosperity is through quality knowledge, in which education plays a pivotal role. 

Most Nigerians have come to prefer Sudan, Ghana, and the UK, just to mention a few, to Nigeria, putting undue pressure on our FX.

 

5. Do you have any words of encouragement for young people who are discouraged about getting educated?

Education remains a key player in emancipating yourself from all kinds of slavery. The more information you gather, all things being equal, the better decision-maker you ought to be. 

My advice will be to never get discouraged and keep seeking knowledge.

 

6. What does it take to become a chartered accountant in Nigeria?

It takes self-denial, focus, determination, and persistence to actualize any dreams, of which being a chartered accountant is not an exception

 

7. Over time, we’ve had people talk about the dichotomy between HND and BSC. Having taught at the polytechnic for years, what is your conviction about the comparisons?

The dichotomy between B.Sc. and HND is real out there only in government establishments where a ceiling is placed on how far you can go in terms of climbing the ladder. But, in the private sector, emphasis is placed on productivity.

More so, the purposes for the establishment of universities and polytechnics are different. The polytechnics were established to provide technical and vocational education, while the universities were to foster advanced learning and enhance research. Hence, the reason for the comparison is unnecessary.

 

8. If you were to advise a young student confused about the ACCA and I CAN, which would you advise them to take and why?

Well, it depends on where you want to practice as an accountant. For you to practice and be well recognized in Nigeria, the law recognizes an indigenous certification – The Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria. 

If you are planning to go to Japan, you can also consider The Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA). Mind you, both are members of The International Federation of Accountants (IFAC), and they have embraced the International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS).

 

9. Was there ever a time you felt doubtful about your career path? Why?

No. I will attribute my early path selection to guidance from my parents. 

The path is always clearer when you choose a mentor. For me, my parents acted in this regard. For those who might not be lucky like me, I will suggest that the teachers should pay closer attention and mentor their students.

 

10. What motivates you in life? 

My dreams motivate me. When you have a big dream, it keeps chasing you, and until you achieve it, you won’t be at peace with yourself.

 

11. What can we expect to hear about you in 5 years?

I don’t want to pre-empt; God knows best, but I believe in the next five (5) years he must have elevated me to greatness, where my name will resound in Nigeria and globally.