Adoption of International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS): Insights from Nigerian Academics and Practitioners

Abstract

The fast pace of globalization with integration of national financial markets has stimulated the need for a common financial language (IFRS) because good financial reporting makes investment and financial decisions more efficient. Nigeria adopted the IFRS in January 2012. This exploratory study examines the state of readiness of Nigerian academics (accounting lecturers and students) and practitioners (professional accountants and auditors) to embrace IFRS adoption. The study examined three research questions about: (i) the extent of IFRS familiarity by academics and practitioners; (ii) the state of readiness to embrace IFRS by academics and practitioners; and (iii) their perspectives regarding a proper national transition plan to IFRS adoption. The results showed significant differences between accounting students, lecturers and practitioners with respect to their degree of familiarity with IFRS. Respondents believed that Nigeria was not ready for IFRS adoption and were of the view that ‘IFRS Course in Accounting Curriculum’ is the best plan to transition Nigerian companies to IFRS, followed by ‘IFRS training for management and staff’. An important policy implication of this study is the urgency of accounting curriculum review in our tertiary education institutions to incorporate IFRS and its implementation dimensions.

Keywords:International Financial Reporting Standards, IFRS, international accounting standards, adoption, adaption, convergence, harmonization, Financial Reporting Council, FRC, Nigeria