Stephen Gowon John-Oti, Doctor of Forensic Accounting

My fascination with Forensic Accounting is borne out of the pervasive preponderance of fraud, corruption, crimes, sleaze and shortchanging in my country, Nigeria and, of course, the underdeveloped countries of the world. Desirous of improving the lot of the citizens and society in general, humongous sums of money are annually earmarked by Governments and Funding Agencies (local and International) to address the parlous and decrepit state of infrastructure, healthcare, education and other social services. These sums are frittered away through sundry illicit practices with no trace. This is the bane of the development and civilization in these societies.I expect to contribute by assisting Governments and agencies desirous of meaningful development for the communities in fostering schemes to prevent such wanton and unchecked misapplication of funds meant for development. Armed with a Doctorate degree in Forensic Accounting, I would be in a stead to set up strategic engagement with Government and development partners towards stemming the tide of corruption. I would as well, engage with Universities in these countries to set up and develop curricular on Forensic Accounting with a view to developing capacity and training an army of youth desirous of a career in Forensic Accounting.Faced with the unavailability of well-developed faculties in Forensic Accounting Studies among tertiary institutions in Nigeria coupled with the acute shortage of expertise in this field, I was constrained to look offshore for an institution with the right culture, tradition and capacity to guide me through in undertaking research in this area. Among the several options that were available, I chose Atlantic International University (AIU).At AIU, I was made to appreciate the fact that “I am unique and unrepeatable”. This statement resonated in my consciousness all along and it has stuck in my faculties.AIU offered me the opportunity to be part of the design of the structure and content of my program of studies. As opposed to reeling out a predetermined course content and pushing it down my throat. I found this very challenging but yet innovative and fascinating. So, along with my Advisors, Tutors and Counselors, we collaborated to fashion out a comprehensive Course Design that would fit my field of study.I was properly guided all along in my Essays, examinations and thesis development. I enjoyed the support and leading of my Tutors and Advisors on a continuous basis in the course my research in my field of study.I pledge to be a true ambassador of Atlantic International University.Stephen John-Oti