Akobundu Ezimah

Supported the Global Fund Country Team in managing grant risks by identifying operational, program, and reputational risk exposures, making actionable recommendations to mitigate challenges. Collaborated on the development and institutionalization of various fraud risk management tools, significantly improving compliance and efficiency.

Coordinated the preparation of annual budgets and managed cash flow through forecasts and expenditure planning, which improved profitability and minimized liquidity risk. Developed Microsoft Excel-based tools for financial reporting and performance monitoring, saving $7,000 on inventory procurement.

Ensured settlement of over $7 million in financial obligations to vendors and led the finance team through successful internal and external audit reviews, resulting in zero ineligible expenditure. Effectively mitigated program implementation risk via continuous evaluation, investigation, and reinforcement of the control environment.

Developed and deployed annual compliance investigation and risk mitigation work plans, providing drive and direction to the team. Identified internal control gaps and supported the enactment of new policies, ensuring over 40% improvement in program implementation and absorption.

Led assurance reviews at implementing partners to verify compliance with financial management arrangements and assessed the control environment. Provided advisory support and assurance services to the Global Fund Country team in Nigeria, reviewing periodic financial and program reports.

Evaluated project partner's program development plan, budgeting process, and performance framework for alignment with donor objectives, leading to minimal implementation challenges. Conducted periodic spot-check reviews on programmatic and financial components of partner's records to assess transaction eligibility and advised on capacity improvement initiatives.

Currently pursuing a Master of Business Administration with a specialization in Finance and Investments. This program focuses on advanced financial concepts and investment strategies.

Grade: Second Class Upper (2:1)

Completed a Bachelor of Engineering in Civil and Water Resources Engineering, graduating with a Second Class Upper (2:1) and ranking as the 3rd best-graduating student out of 106.