The Role of Accountants in Promoting Transparency, Accountability and Sustainable Growth: Evidence from Nigeria

Abstract

The heightened demand for corporate accountability and the complexity of financial systems has expanded the role of accountant beyond traditional reporting to encompass broader responsibilities to promote transparency, accountability, and sustainable growth. This study examines how accountants contribute to these outcomes, with evidence from Nigeria as a representative developing economy. Anchored on agency and stakeholder theories, the study adopts a descriptive survey design, drawing on data from 435 accounting professionals across public and private sector organizations. Using multiple regression analysis, the findings reveal that financial reporting quality significantly enhances transparency (β = 0.642, p < 0.05)., while professional ethics strengthens accountability (β = 0.587, p < 0.05). In addition, sustainability reporting is positively associated with sustainable growth (β = 0.611, p < 0.05), and compliance with regulatory frameworks improves organizational performance (β = 0.559, p < 0.05). The study contributes to the literature by providing integrated empirical evidence linking core accounting functions to governance and sustainability outcomes in a developing country context. It underscores the strategic importance of the accounting profession in advancing institutional trust and long-term value creation. Policy implications include strengthening ethical enforcement, promoting sustainability reporting practices, and enhancing regulatory oversight to improve corporate governance and economic resilience.