Robust Internal control systems key to quality public health investments-Expert
By Ojoma Akor
The Director of Internal Audit and Compliance at the Institute of Human Virology Nigeria (IHVN), Dr. Johnson Obilikwu, has warned that fraud and non-compliance pose significant threats to healthcare programs, stressing that robust internal control systems are essential to protecting public health investments.
Speaking with Health and Science Africa, Dr. Obilikwu said fraud thrives where controls are weak, emphasizing that strong internal controls create an environment in which transparency, accountability, and integrity become the norm rather than the exception.
He urged health organizations to adopt a risk-based approach that combines prevention, detection, and response mechanisms. According to him, effective safeguards include clear policies and procedures, segregation of duties, competitive procurement processes, approval hierarchies, regular risk assessments, internal audits, compliance reviews, staff training, and confidential whistleblower mechanisms.
“Technology also plays a critical role in strengthening transparency and monitoring financial transactions,” he said. “At IHVN, we focus on strengthening systems rather than merely identifying faults. By detecting control weaknesses early and recommending corrective actions, we help prevent problems before they affect programs, beneficiaries, or donor confidence.”
Dr. Obilikwu noted that maintaining consistent financial and operational standards across numerous health facilities and implementing partners remains a challenge, particularly where technical capacity varies.
He said overcoming these challenges requires continuous training, mentoring, supportive supervision, standardized reporting systems, and close collaboration with implementing partners.
He stressed that sound financial governance directly affects patient care by ensuring that medicines, laboratory supplies, medical equipment, and other critical resources reach health facilities and communities as intended.
“When resources are managed effectively, healthcare providers can focus on delivering quality services to patients,” he said. “Good governance is not just about financial integrity—it is about ensuring that every available resource contributes to saving lives and improving public health.”
According to Dr. Obilikwu, strong compliance systems minimize waste, reduce fraud, promote value for money, and enable health programs to reach more beneficiaries, making internal controls a critical pillar of a resilient health system and sustainable national development.