Group 49 Final Approved Project
Group 49 Final Approved Project
Group 49 Final Approved Project
BY
MOHAMMED IBRAHIM 2021/ND/ACC/049
FAHAD ALI MUSA 2021/ND/ACC/101
USMAN UMAR 2021/ND/ACC/151
IBRAHIM ADAMU 2021/ND/ACC/204
MUSTAPHA MOHAMMED MOHAMMED 2021/ND/ACC/265
OCTOBER, 2023
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APPROVAL PAGE
This project has been read and approved by the examiners as having met the standard requirement
specified by the Department of Accountancy, Ramat Polytechnic, Maiduguri for the award of
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DEDICATION
We dedicated this research work to Almighty Allah and our family members.
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
We thank Almighty Allah for sustaining our life to this moment. By his Grace and infinite mercy,
this research has been completed successfully. Honestly speaking it is true that one cannot lift a
roof alone without been helped. Similarly, to undertake a research alone means a lot and it is not
Mohammed for his support, invaluable advice, motherly care enlightened, guidance, suggestion,
inexhaustible patience and the needed attention he gave us during the course of the research work.
Our special gratitude goes to the Head of Department in the person of Mallama Hafsat Bukar
Adamu, and our special appreciation also goes to our project coordinator in person of Mal. Umar
Makama and others lecturers in Department of Accountancy for their moral support and the
Similarly, our heartfelt gratitude goes to our ever loved parents who have been pilot to our
educational advancement right from inception we want to add more strength to their elbow for
tolerance, patience, financially, moral and spiritual support that make our dream a reality today.
Finally, we thank dedicated this work to all our families, brothers, sisters, friends and relatives.
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ABSTRACT
This research assessed the impact of internal control system on profit performance of commercial
banks in Nigeria in which First Bank of Nigeria Plc. Maiduguri Branch was used as case study.
Specifically, the study establish the effect of control environment on the profit performance of
commercial banks in Nigeria, Both primary and secondary sources of data were adhered to on the
course of this study and the attitude and responses of those interviewed were noted. The sample
size for this study is fifty (50) staff of First Bank Nigeria Plc. In determining the sample size, the
researcher used the Yaro Yamane’s formula. Data was obtained through questionnaire and oral
interviews. The data collected were analyze using simple percentage and chi-square (X2). The
findings of the research indicated that the bank routinely evaluate the overall effectiveness of your
internal control system. Findings also shows that there is a statistically significant relationship
between risk assessment and profit performance of commercial banks in Nigeria. It was
recommended that the internal auditor should issue reports of examination of the banks’ internal
control and if the proper procedures are not followed should alert the management and Board of
Directors of the development.
Keywords: Internal Control, Profit Performance, Commercial Banks, First Bank, Maiduguri
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Contents Pages
Title Page i
Approval Page ii
Dedication iii
Acknowledgements iv
Abstract v
Table of Contents vi
CHAPTER ONE: INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background to the study 1
1.2 Statement of the problem 3
1.3 Objectives of the study 4
1.4 Research questions 5
1.5 Statement of the hypothesis 5
1.6 Significance of the study 6
1.7 Scope of the study 7
1.8 Definitions of terms 7
CHAPTER TWO: LITERATURE REVIEW
2.1 Conceptual Framework 8
2.2 Theoretical frame work 14
2.3 Empirical Review 16
CHAPTER THREE: RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
3.1 Area of the Study 18
3.2 Research Design 18
3.3 Population of the Study 19
3.4 Sample Size and Sampling Techniques 19
3.5 Sources of Data 20
3.6 Method of Data Collection 20
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3.7 Method of Data Analysis 21
CHAPTER FOUR: DATA PRESENTATION AND ANALYSIS
4.0 Data Presentation and Analysis 23
4.1 Findings of the Study 23
4.2 Discussion of Findings 26
4.3 Test of Hypothesis 31
4.4 Decision of the Study 40
CHAPTER FIVE: SUMMARY, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS
5.1 Summary 41
5.2 Conclusion 42
5.3 Recommendations 43
References 45
Appendix-1 Questionnaire 47
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CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
Internal controls have become of paramount importance today in Nigerian banks. The reason being
that the control systems in any organization are a pillar of an efficient accounting system
(Wanemba, 2015). The increasing volatility in global markets and need for enhanced shareholder
returns has motivated the management of firms to foster the internal control mechanisms as an
element of enhancing the competitive edge of firms (Rittenberg & Schwieger, 2010). This is
particularly important for banks as weak internal control system stands as one of the major cause
of dismal performance in banks mainly due to undetected frauds (Etuk, 2011). From a management
point of view there is need to ensure that internal control systems are put in place in order to reduce
the occurrence of fraud. Internal control is a dynamic integral process that is adapting continuously
The survival of any organization depends on the effective and efficient utilization of resources
(financial and non-financial) at the disposal of the organization. Hence, to optimize the utilization
of resources entrusted to all employees in an organization, various form of control are put in place
by management of the organization, among these major controls are internal control and internal
According to Kirsch, (2007) Internal control can be defined as a set of mechanism designed to
motivate an individual or a group towards achievement of a desired objective, while, Ouchi (1999)
stated that internal control must be able to achieve the objective of bringing about cooperation
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Auditing (ISA 400) defines internal control as all policies and procedure adopted by the
management of an entity to assist in achieving the primary objectives of the management by make
sure the business is conducted in the most possible efficient way and also ensuring strict adherence
to management policies, safeguarding of asset, prevention and detection of fraud and timely
On the other hand, Financial Performance of an organization can be described in various form,
such as; return on assets, return on sales, return on equity, return on investment, return on capital
employed and sales growth (Gerrit & Abdolmohammadi, 2015). It is also a measure of the excess
value a company has provided to its shareholders over the total amount of their investments.
According to Donald & Delno (2014), appropriate performance measures are those which enable
organizations to direct their actions towards achieving their strategic objectives. An entity should
put in place its own system of controls in order to achieve its objectives (Mwindi, 2013). A system
of effective internal controls is a critical component of company management and a foundation for
the safe and sound operation of organizations. However, ineffective internal controls result in
Internal controls are intended primarily to enhance the reliability of financial performance, either
(Jensen, 2008). Internal controls provide an independent appraisal of the quality of managerial
performance in carrying out assigned responsibilities for performance (Beeler et al, 2009). Fadzil
et al (2010) said that an effective internal control system unequivocally correlates with
organizational success in meeting its performance target level. Internal control keeps an
organization on course toward its objectives and the achievement of its mission. They promote
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effectiveness and efficiency of operations, reduces the risk of asset loss, and helps to ensure
There have been incessant cases and stories been told about high frequency of fraud,
embezzlement, overcharging, manipulation, missing files and ledger cards and other banking
malpractices in banks today, with the management and shareholders not knowing how to handle
The First Bank of Nigeria were not left out in these increase in crime wave problems and banking
malpractices, despite the existence of inter-control and devices adopted to detect fraud. This
situation has culminated in the lack of confidence by the staff, shareholders and customer over the
Despite the guidelines set out by Central Bank of Nigeria in accordance with the Banking Act Cap,
there has been numerous cases of bank failures in performance due to fraud and lack of elaborate
internal controls as well as compliance with internal and external regulations within the industry
(FLSTAP, 2011). Olumbe (2012) studied the relationship between internal control systems and
corporate governance in commercial banks in Nigeria. This study, however, did not measure the
moderating effect of the CBN prudential guidelines. Njenga and Osiemo (2013) studied the effect
of fraud detection through an internal control on the performance of deposit- taking microfinance
institutions in Nigeria. However, this research did not review in detail all the internal control
system aspects. Ochoge (2011) was emphasizing on the internal control and organizational
performance, the above research failed to show the direct contribution of internal control to the
financial performance.
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From the mentioned literature it was evident that internal control systems influence the
performance of both financial and non-financial institutions, in the current market environment
where financial institutions have been on the receiving end due to unethical issues and increase in
banking fraud it’s imperative to assess the role of internal control systems in mitigating losses and
fraud in the banking industry. The scanty evidence on the relationship between internal control
systems and performance of commercial banks has motivated the current research. This will
enhance both the practices and academic knowledge gap. Further, this research was undertaken to
fill this knowledge gap by studying the effects of internal controls system on profit performance
of commercial banks in Nigeria with special interest on First Bank of Nigeria Plc. Maiduguri
branch.
The broad objective of this study is to assess the impact of internal control system on profit
ii. To determine the effect of risk assessment on profit performance of commercial banks in
iv. To establish the effect of control activities on the profit performance of commercial banks
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v. To assess the effect of monitoring on the profit performance of commercial banks in First
i. What are the effects of control environment on the profit performance of commercial banks
ii. What are the effects of risk assessment on profit performance of commercial banks in First
iii. What are the effects of information and communication on financial performance of
iv. What are the effects of control activities on the profit performance of commercial banks in
v. What are the effects of monitoring on the profit performance of commercial banks in First
H02: There is no significant relationship between risk assessment and profit performance of
H03: There is no significant relationship between information and communication and profit
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H04: There is no significant effect of control activities on the profit performance of commercial
banks in Nigeria.
H05: There is no relationship between monitoring and profit performance of commercial banks in
Nigeria.
The research is intended to define the level of internal control and its impact on profitability of
First Bank of Nigeria Plc. Maiduguri Branch. It will be of great importance to the banking staff
especially the managers and officers whose interest are geared towards the enhancement of the
chances of bank profitability; in serving as a guide in the performance of their duties. It will assess
accounting records etc. on profitability in view of the existing internal control system.
A comprehensive knowledge of system of internal control will form a foundation on which the
auditor’s report on “true and fair view” final account is based and as such, the study will be of
immense values to the practicing Accountants, Auditors, Lawyers, shareholder and other interested
Furthermore, it will include more research in the improvement of banking services in Nigeria for
Finally, the study will provide the basis for recommendation to the management of the best
approach to designing, installing and operating an improved system of internal control aimed at
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1.7 Scope of the Study
This study covered the internal control systems adopted by various commercial banks in Nigeria.
The population sample was taken from First Bank of Nigeria and their branches in Maiduguri
Borno State. Other parts of the country were not covered, though empirically generalized view
The researcher at this point believes that some key words and terms that will be encountered while
Internal Control System: This is the whole system of controls, financial and otherwise
established by the management in order to carry on the business of the enterprises in orderly and
efficient manner, ensure adherence to management policies, safeguard the assistance and secure
Internal Accounting/Financial Control: Measures that relate to protection of assets and to the
Internal Administrative Control: A sub category of internal controls which reply principally to
operational efficiency and compliance with company policy and which do not bear directly on the
investigate and evaluate the system of internal control on a year round basis. Also to evaluate the
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CHAPTER TWO
LITERATURE REVIEW
2.0 Introduction
This chapter presents the literature as well as the conceptual framework and theoretical framework
for the study so as to serve as a link between the past and the present.
The structure of modern banking system and the high expectation from the investors and the
society at large has called for a more tightened internal control system. Internal control has been
variously defined.
work and authority flows, people and management information system, designed to help the
organization accomplish specific goals or objective”. From the definition, the objective of any
internal control should be directed towards the attainment of the organizational objectives. In the
words of Okozie (2009) “Internal Control is the whole system of controls, financial and otherwise,
established by the management in order to carry on the business of the enterprise in an orderly and
efficient manner, ensure adherence to management policies, safeguard the assets and secure as far
possible the completeness and accuracy of the records”. A sound internal control system should
provide the platform for recording and processing transactions in such a way that it form adequate
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An efficient internal control system involved a clear definition and separation of duties for various
employees or groups within a company. The intent of separating the duties is to protect against
fraud, waste, abuse and mismanagement of resources. Effective internal control helps to assure the
accuracy of reports to management and the various supervising bodies (in the case of banks).
According to Asuquo (2010) “Internal Control is made up of internal checks, internal audit,
accounting controls and other forms of controls such as budgetary and physical control”. Okozie
(2009) posited that “the primary responsibility for the maintenance of the effective internal control
The Auditing standard “The Auditors Operational Standard" sets out some of the types of controls
Organization:- The standard states that enterprises should have a plan of their organization,
defining and allocating responsibilities and identifying lines of reporting for all aspects of the
enterprises operations, including the controls. The delegation of authority and responsibility
Segregation of Duties: - One of the prime means of control is the segregation of those
responsibilities or duties which would, if combined enable one individual to record and process
a complete transaction. The involvement of several people in a process reduces the risk of
intentional manipulation or accident error and increase the element of checking of work.
Physical:- These are concerned with mainly the custody of assets and involve procedures and
security measures designed to ensure that access to assets is limited to authorized personnel.
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Authorization and Approval: - All transactions should require authorization or approval by
Arithmetical and Accounting:- These are the controls associated with the recording function
which checks that the transactions to be recorded and processed have been authorized, that
they are induced and that they are correctly recorded and accurately processed. Such controls
according to the guideline includes checking the arithmetical accuracy of the records, the
maintenance and checking the totals, reconciliations, control accounts and trial balances
commensurate with their responsibilities, inevitably, the proper functioning of any system
depends on the competence and integrity of those operating it. The qualification, selection,
the right level as well as innate personal characteristics of the personnel involved are important
Supervision: - The guideline provides that any system of internal control should include the
other words, all actions by all levels of staff, should be supervised. The responsibility for
supervision should be clearly laid down and communicated to the person being supervised.
Management: - These are the controls, exercised by the management outside the day-to-day
routine of the system. They include the overall supervising controls exercise by management,
the review of management accounts and comparison thereof with budgets, the internal audit
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Budgeting: - A common technique used in business is the use of budgets, which can be defined
as quantitative plans of action. Budgets having been agreed, can be compared with actual turn
Internal control activities are designed to provide reasonable assurance that particular objectives
There are ‘seven detailed objective that an internal control system must meet to prevent errors in
Accounting to Aren and Loebbecke (2004), the client’s system of internal control must be
Recorded Transactions are valid (Validity): The system cannot permit the inclusion of fictitious
takes place, it could result in a fraudulent transaction, and it could also have the effect of wasting
Existing transactions are recorded (Completeness): The client’s procedures must provide
Transaction are properly valued (Valuation): An adequate system includes procedures to avoid
errors in calculating and recording transactions at various stages in the recording process.
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Transactions are properly classified (Classification): The proper account classification
according to the client’s chart of accounts must be made in the journals if the financial statements
are to be properly stated. Classification also includes such categories as division and product.
Transactions are recorded at the proper time, (Timing): The recording of transactions either
before or after the time they took place increases the likelihood of failing to record transactions or
of recording them at the improper amount. If late recording occurs at the end of the period, the
Transactions are properly included in subsidiary records and correctly summarized (Posting
and Summarization): In many instances, individual transactions are summarized and totaled
before they are recorded in the journals. The journals are then posted to the general ledger, and the
The nature and operation of commercial banks require an effective system of internal control.
Attwood and Stein maintained that the highest standard of internal control must be present in view
of the large amount of cash present in banks, and possible opportunities to manipulate accounts if
controls were absent. They opined that the following controls are necessary for every branch of a
bank:
• Custody Control: - Access to bank vaults, strong room and other stores require the
presence of two designated bank officials, manager and Accountant to open them and strict
records are kept of the issue and receipt of cash and securities.
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• Segregation of Duties: - No staff of the bank will be allowed to record and process a
complete transaction. The work will be so separated that a transaction has to pass through more
the monitoring of balances. Limit is normally placed on the manager's authority. Beyond that
• Active Internal Audit: - Teams of internal auditors normally referred to in the banking
industry as inspectors, should be making surprise visits to branches to count cash and review
Muraleetharan (2011) found internal control system and financial performance were statistically
significant in determining corporate goals. This is in tandem with the objective of this study.
Internal controls promote efficiency, reduce risk of asset loss and help ensure the reliability of
financial statements and compliance with the laws and regulations. Whittington and Pany (2006)
objectives in financial reporting, operations and compliance with laws and regulations. Doyle et
al. (2010) found that the company level of control problems, which cannot be audited as easily,
are associated with lower earnings quality, which explore links between disclosure of material
weakness and fraud, earnings management or restatements. According to Magara (2013), effective
internal controls are one of the mechanisms used to address the agency problems. Banks that have
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effective internal controls in place easily address the agency problems, minimize agency costs and
mitigates against earnings management resulting to scandalous reporting that could lead to loss of
resources. The agency problems discussed have a negative impact on Banks profitability.
and a foundation for its safe and sound operation. A system of strong internal control can help to
ensure that the goals and objectives of an organization will be met, that it will achieve long-term
targets and maintain reliable financial and managerial reporting. Such a system can also help to
ensure that the organization will comply with laws and regulations as well as policies, plans,
internal rules and procedures, and reduce the risk of unexpected losses and damage to the
organization’s reputation.
The agency theory holds that a firm is made up of owners of the resource (principals) and the
managements (agents) (Jensen & Meckling, 1996). The agents of the firm have more information
than the principals which creates an information asymmetry which affects the ability of the firms
owners to monitor whether there interests are being protected by the agents (Jensen & Meckling,
1996).
In order to ensure harmonization of the interests of the principal and their agents the theory posits
that a comprehensive contract is necessary to ensure that the interests of the principals are met.
The relationship between the agent and principal is further strengthened by employing experts and
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systems such as audit and control environment (Jussi & Petri, 2009). The internal control system
Attribution theory is a social psychology theory that explores how people interpret events and
behaviors and how they ascribe causes to the events and behaviors. According to Schroth and Shah
(2005), studies using attribution theory examine the use of information in the social environment
to explain events and behaviors. Reffett (2012) asserts that when evaluators believe comparable
persons would have acted differently in a given circumstance, they (evaluators) tend to attribute
responsibility for an outcome to the person. According to Wilks and Zimbelman (2009), the first
case refers to internal or dispositional attributions while the second one refers to external or
situational attributions.
The auditor’s accountability for detecting fraud is extended by Reffett’s (2012) study which
predicted that auditors are more likely to be held accountable by evaluators when the auditors fail
to detect fraud after they had identified the fraud occurrence as a fraud risk. The result of Reffett’s
study shows an increase in auditors’ liability when an audit fails after the auditors had identified
the perpetrated fraud as a fraud risk and performed procedures to investigate the identified fraud
risk.
Reliability theory simply describes the probability of a system completing its expected function
during an interval of time (Gavrilov & Gavrilova, 2006). The theory has been used as a model by
insurance and life insurance companies in computing profitable rates to charge their customers.
The theory stipulates that internal control systems are primarily set up for assessment and control
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of risks. The theory further argues that weak internal control systems result in more substantive
Several scholars have carried out research in order to establish the relationship between internal
Ayagre, et al. (2014) researched the effectiveness of Internal Control Systems of banks: The case
of Ghanaian banks. This study evaluated the control environment and monitoring activities
components of Internal Control Systems of Ghanaian Banks using COSO’s principles and
attributes of assessing the effectiveness of internal control systems. The study found out that,
strong controls exist in the control environment and monitoring activities components of the
internal control systems of banks in Ghana. The study recommended that boards of banks in Ghana
should not be complacent about the findings but should work hard to ensure continuous ongoing
and separate internal control monitoring to ascertain that controls really exist and are functioning
properly.
Hayali, et al. (2014) studied the importance of internal control system in the banking sector:
Evidence from Turkey. In this study, the importance of internal control system was expressed, also
its impacts to the banking system analyzed. The research showed that the internal control activities
of the banks are adapted to the international standards in Turkey and effective control procedures
existed in the banking system. In addition, efficient internal control mechanisms have great impact
Bayyoud and Sayyad (2015) studied the impact of internal control and risk management on banks
in Palestine. The investigation helped in identifying the impacts of new banking reformations and
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rules on the risk assessment, identification, and mitigation in banks. The findings showed that
overall internal control and risk management systems in Palestine have positively affected the
Ndiwa and Kwasira (2014) carried out a study guided by the Agency Theory to test empirically
the effects of internal control on financial performance in tertiary institutions in Kenya. The study
used a case study research design. The findings showed that the institution’s Internal Audit
staffed, and the recruitment process of the auditors should be free from the management influence.
Ireri and Wagoki (2014) carried out a study to establish the role of internal control system
components in Kenyan public universities. The study found out that there were internal control
mechanisms in the Kenyan universities but they were ineffective. The study recommended the
strengthening of training and guidance in internal control systems to ensure that all employees not
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CHAPTER THREE
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
This chapter focuses on methodologies to be adopted for this research and it will include study
area, research design, and population of the study, sample and sampling techniques, source of
Maiduguri is the capital of Borno state which is located in the north east zone of Nigeria. Even
though with the fact of insecurity difficulties, yet people are marketing in and outside the State for
business purposes.
First Bank of Nigeria, sometimes referred to as First Bank, is a multinational bank and financial
services company headquartered in Lagos. It is the biggest bank in Nigeria by total deposits and
gross earnings. It operates a network of over 750 business locations across Africa, the United
Kingdom and representative offices in Abu Dhabi, Beijing and Johannesburg set up to capture
Research design provided the glue that holds the research project together. A research design is
used to structure the research to show how all major part of the research project work digestion
According to Baridam (1994) research design could therefore be seen as a framework or plan that
is use as a guide in collecting and analyzing the data for study. The study was designed in a manner
the objective having verified the problems and developed empirical question and hypothesis, the
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researcher engage into a field work to obtain relevant primary data for the execution and assistance
definitely, and this is a survey research. Survey research is the method of gathering data from
open ended items (questionnaire). The survey design was used in this research so as to ensure
Malhotra & Dash (2010) defined target population as the collection of elements or objects that
possess the information sought by the researcher and about which inferences are to be made. The
study population consisted of 150 employees of First Bank of Nigeria Plc Maiduguri Branch. This
population comprised of Managers and Assistant Managers of various department, senior Staff
Mboho (2010) defined sample as a part or subset of a population. The sample size for this study is
fifty (50) staff of First Bank Nigeria Plc. In determining the sample size, the researcher will use
the Yaro Yamane’s formula as stated in Udeze (2005).
n = N
1 +N (e)2
Where N = Population
n = Sample size
Thus = 150
1 +150 (0.1)2
= 150
1 +150 (0.1)2
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= 150
1 +150 (0.01)
= 150
2.5
= 150
3
= 50
The sample size of 50 will be selected using a non-probability judgment sampling method. The
respondents will be limited to Managers and Assistant Managers of various department, senior
The various head will be selected as sample because they constitute the suppose cost reduction
committee that plan, and implement these cost reduction techniques in their various department. It
is believe that the staff above will be able to give relevant information with regards to the problem
at hand.
For the purpose of this research, both primary and secondary research will be adopted. The primary
data were obtained from the management of the First Bank of Nigeria Plc Maiduguri Branch with
the aid of a structured questionnaire. The secondary data will be obtained from textbooks, journals,
According to Etuk (2010) data collection is the process through which a researcher searches for
data to help him solve the problem at hand. Data will be obtained through questionnaire and oral
interviews.
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3.7 Method of Data Analysis
The data that will be collected from various sources, will be analyze using the following statistical
measurement.
Chi-square (X2): The chi-square (X2) is among the non-parametric statistic test that is for one,
two, or more variables. The purpose of this test is to determine how the observed set of data differs
fe
Where X2 = chi-square
fo = frequency observed
fe = frequency expected
In obtaining the chi-square, the degree of freedom and the values of the significance will be
considered important. This study will make use of 0.5% level of significance in testing the
hypotheses.
The decision rule of the study is given as follows: to accept or reject the Null hypothesis, the
calculated value will be compared with the critical table value. If the calculated or computed
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chisquare value (X2) at 0.05 level of significant is greater than table value, the null hypothesis is
rejected while the alternative hypothesis is accepted. On the other hand, if calculated or chi-square
value (X2) is less than or equal to the table value, the null hypothesis is accepted while alternative
hypothesis rejected.
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CHAPTER FOUR
This chapter is connected with the analysis and presentation of the data collected during the field
This chapter will at least present the data collected in form of table to facilitate easy understanding
analysis and discussion of the respondents view in relation to issues raised in the questionnaires.
These enables the researcher to form opinion based on the analyzed data.
Relevant question from section B of the questionnaires are gathered and analyzed for the purposes
Male 30 60
Female 20 40
Total 50 100
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Table 4.1.2: Demographic Characteristics of Respondents based on Marital Status
Single 35 70
Married 15 30
Total 50 100
Below 30 25 50
31 – 40 15 30
41 and above 10 20
Total 50 100
30 years, 15, (30%) fall within the age range of 31 – 40 years while 10 (20%) fall within the age
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Table 4.1.4: Demographic Characteristics of Respondents based on Educational Qualifications
HND/B.Sc./B.A. 24 48
OND/NCE 20 40
SSCE/GCE 6 12
Total 50 100
B.A. and HND holders, 20 respondents representing (40%) are OND and NCE holders while 6
respondents representing (12%) of the educational qualifications are SSCE and GCE holders.
Below 5 32 64
5 – 9 years 10 20
Total 50 100
5 years in years of experience, 10 of the respondents representing (20%) have put in between 5
and 9 years while 8 respondents representing (16%) have put in more than 10 years of experience.
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4.2 Discussion of Findings
Section B
Question 1
Do you routinely evaluate the overall effectiveness of your internal control system?
Table 4.1.6
Yes 50 100
No - -
Total 50 100%
Question 2
Is there effect of control environment on the profit performance of commercial bank in Nigeria?
Table 4.1.7
Yes 34 68
No 16 32
Total 50 100%
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Question 3
Do the branch management and its representatives have complete access to records?
Table 4.1.8
Yes 37 74
No 13 26
Total 50 100%
Question 4
Yes 35 70
No 15 30
Total 50 100%
70% agreed that there is effect of risk assessment on profit performance of commercial banks in
Nigeria.
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Question 5
Are the systems of internal controls referred to in for above functioning as they are intended to?
Table 4.1.10
Yes 37 74
No 13 26
Total 50 100%
internal controls referred to in for above functioning as they are intended to.
Question 6
Does information and communication on financial performance have effect on commercial banks
in Nigeria?
Table 4.1.11
Yes 33 66
No 17 34
Total 50 100%
66% agreed that information and communication on financial performance have effect on
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Question 7
Do you agree that the responsibility of internal control is that of the management?
Table 4.1.12
Yes 39 78
No 11 22
Total 50 100%
Question 8
Are there effects of control activities on the profit performance of commercial banks in Nigeria?
Table 4.1.13
Yes 34 68
No 16 32
Total 50 100%
68% agreed that there are effects of control activities on the profit performance of commercial
banks in Nigeria.
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Question 9
Does the accounting system records all the transactions of the bank and produce accurate
Table 4.1.14
Yes 31 62
No 19 38
Total 50 100%
62% agreed that accounting system records all the transactions of the bank and produce accurate
Question 10
Table 4.1.15
Yes 27 54
No 23 46
Total 60 100%
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From the table above it was revealed that most of the respondents with 27 responses representing
54% agreed that commercial bank in Nigeria monitors the performance of profit.
With special reference to the purpose of this study, this hypothesis shall be tested using the chi-
square.
Hypothesis One
HO: There is no statistically significant influence of the control environment on profit performance
H1: There is statistically significant influence of the control environment on profit performance of
The hypothesis can be tested by using table 4.1.7 where a total of 34 respondents representing
(68%) agreed that there is effect of control environment on the profit performance of commercial
bank in Nigeria.
Test Statistics:
Where X2 = Chi-Square
oi = Observed frequency
ei = Expected frequency
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Assumption:
DF = (R – 1) (C – 1)
Where, R = Rows
C = Columns
DF = (2 – 1) (2 – 1)
DF = 1x1
= 1
NOTE: The value of 1 at 0.05 significant level is 3.841 using the chi-square table.
16 25 -9 81 3.24
50 6.48
Comparing the test statistics with critical value 6.48 > 3.841
Decision Rule: Since the calculated value of X2 is greater than the critical value 3.841, the null
hypothesis which states that there is no statistically significant influence of the control environment
on profit performance of commercial banks in Nigeria is rejected and the alternative hypothesis
which states that there is statistically significant influence of the control environment on profit
32
Conclusion: There is statistically significant influence of the control environment on profit
Hypothesis Two
HO: There is no statistically significant relationship between risk assessment and profit
The hypothesis can be tested by using table 4.1.9 where a total of 35 responses representing 70%
agreed that there is effect of risk assessment on profit performance of commercial banks in Nigeria.
Test Statistics:
ei
Where X2 = Chi-Square
oi = Observed frequency
ei = Expected frequency
Assumption:
DF = (R – 1) (C – 1)
33
Where, R = Rows
C = Columns
DF = (2 – 1) (2 – 1)
DF = 1x1
= 1
NOTE: The value of 1 at 0.05 significant level is 3.841 using the chi-square table.
15 25 -10 100 4
50 8
hypothesis which states that there is no statistically significant relationship between risk
assessment and profit performance of commercial banks in Nigeria is rejected and the alternative
hypothesis which states that there is statistically significant relationship between risk assessment
Conclusion: There is statistically significant relationship between risk assessment and profit
34
Hypothesis Three
HO: There is no statistically significant relationship between information and communication and
H1: There is statistically significant relationship between information and communication and
The hypothesis can be tested by using table 4.1.11 where a total of 33 responses representing 66%
agreed that information and communication on financial performance have effect on commercial
banks in Nigeria.
Test Statistics:
ei
Where X2 = Chi-Square
oi = Observed frequency
ei = Expected frequency
Assumption:
DF = (R – 1) (C – 1)
Where, R = Rows
C = Columns
35
DF = (2 – 1) (2 – 1)
DF = 1x1
= 1
NOTE: The value of 1 at 0.05 significant level is 3.841 using the chi-square table.
17 25 -8 64 2.56
50 5.12
Comparing the test statistics with critical value 5.12 > 3.841
Decision Rule: Since the calculated value of X2 is greater than the critical value 3.841, the null
hypothesis which states that there is no statistically significant relationship between information
and communication and profit performance of commercial banks in Nigeria is rejected and the
alternative hypothesis which states that there is statistically significant relationship between
accepted.
Hypothesis Four
HO: There is no statistically significant effect of control activities on the profit performance of
36
H1: There is statistically significant effect of control activities on the profit performance of
The hypothesis can be tested by using table 4.1.13 where a total of 34 responses representing 68%
agreed that there are effects of control activities on the profit performance of commercial banks in
Nigeria.
Test Statistics:
ei
Where X2 = Chi-Square
oi = Observed frequency
ei = Expected frequency
Assumption:
DF = (R – 1) (C – 1)
Where, R = Rows
C = Columns
DF = (2 – 1) (2 – 1)
DF = 1x1
= 1
NOTE: The value of 1 at 0.05 significant level is 3.841 using the chi-square table.
37
Table 4.2.4: Testing of the 4th Hypothesis
16 25 -9 81 3.24
50 6.48
Comparing the test statistics with critical value 6.48 > 3.841
Decision Rule: Since the calculated value of X2 is greater than the critical value 3.841, the null
hypothesis which states that there is no statistically significant effect of control activities on the
profit performance of commercial banks in Nigeria is rejected and the alternative hypothesis which
states that there is statistically significant effect of control activities on the profit performance of
Conclusion: There is statistically significant effect of control activities on the profit performance
Hypothesis Five
HO: There is no relationship between monitoring and profit performance of commercial banks in
Nigeria.
H1: There is relationship between monitoring and profit performance of commercial banks in
Nigeria.
The hypothesis can be tested by using table 4.1.15 where a total of 27 responses representing 54%
Test Statistics:
38
Formula X2 = ∑ (oi – ei)2
ei
Where X2 = Chi-Square
oi = Observed frequency
ei = Expected frequency
Assumption:
DF = (R – 1) (C – 1)
Where, R = Rows
C = Columns
DF = (2 – 1) (2 – 1)
DF = 1x1
= 1
NOTE: The value of 1 at 0.05 significant level is 3.841 using the chi-square table.
Thus: The critical value is given as X2 is 3.841.
Table 4.2.5: Testing of the 5th Hypothesis
23 25 -2 4 0.16
50 0.32
Comparing the test statistics with critical value 0.32 < 3.841
Decision Rule: Since the calculated value of X2 is lesser than the critical value 3.841, the null
hypothesis which states that there is no relationship between monitoring and profit performance
39
of commercial banks in Nigeria is accepted and the alternative hypothesis which states that there
rejected.
banks in Nigeria.
40
CHAPTER FIVE
5.1 Summary
The general objective of this study was to examine the impact of internal control on profit
performance of commercial banks, a study of First Bank Nigeria Plc. Other specific objectives are
to; examine the effect of control environment on the profit performance of commercial banks in
Nigeria, examine the effect of risk assessment on profit performance of commercial banks in
commercial banks in Nigeria, establish the effect of control activities on the profit performance of
commercial banks in Nigeria and to assess the effect of monitoring on the profit performance of
The sample size for this study is fifty (50) staff of First Bank Nigeria Plc. which we use the Yaro
Yamane’s formula. Two instruments for data collection which is primary and secondary data or
sources were used. The data gathered from the fieldwork will be presented in a tabular form and
in statistical testing of hypothesis, the Chi-square (X2) test of hypothesis was employed in analysis
The result of the analysis indicates that they routinely evaluate the overall effectiveness of your
internal control system. The study also reveals that branch management and its representatives
have complete access to records. Findings show that the responsibility of internal control is that of
the management. Also findings shows that accounting system records all the transactions of the
bank and produce accurate information capable of being relied upon by management and investors.
41
The result of the analysis also indicates that there is statistically significant influence of the control
environment on profit performance of commercial banks in Nigeria. Analysis also shows that there
performance of commercial banks in Nigeria. Finally findings show that there is no relationship
5.2 Conclusion
The following conclusions were made from the investigation carried to evaluate the system of
a) There are internal control departments in all banks in Nigeria. In most of the banks, the
department is headed by very senior officers not below the rank of Assistant General
Manager.
b) The responsibility of Internal Control is strictly that of the management. The internal control
c) The presence of Internal Control system in the banks has provided reasonable assurance
regarding the effectiveness and efficiency of operations of banks in Nigeria, the reliability of
financial and management reporting and guarantees compliance with applicable laws and
regulations.
d) The banks rely heavily on the internal control system on the implementation of policies and
procedures.
e) The study revealed that reliance can be placed on the internal control system of banks in
42
Nigeria.
f) The statistical analysis of the second hypothesis showed clearly that the presence of internal
control system and the effectiveness in the management of banks in Nigeria are perfectly and
positively related.
g) We can conclude further from the study that there exists a high positive correlation between
5.3 Recommendations
The researcher through this study was afforded the opportunity to make the following
recommendation that will enhance the operational adequacy and efficiency of internal control
installed by the two banks and also promotes their profit performance
1. From the analysis of the hypothesis, it was discovered that bonding, vacation and ethical
conduct were the features of good internal control not adequately observed by both banks.
As a result of this fraud is perpetrated. In line with this, the researcher recommend that bank
staff be adequately bonded, mandated to go on annual leave when due and tutored on the
importance of maintaining good rapport and relationship with customers however small or
big.
2. The banks’ personnel departments should endeavor to review their recruitment system;
qualified and honest applicants should be employed, instead of using the Nigerian current
wave in “IM” in offering employment. An in-depth study of the applicants’ past life or
43
3. In EDP department hardware and data storage media should be protected against damage
4. The internal auditor should issue reports of his examination of the banks’ internal control
and if the proper procedures are not followed should alert the management and Board of
5. On cash disbursement, persons who sign cheques should be prohibited from having access
6. The salaries department should keep a history record of engagement, retirement or dismissal,
disbursement.
8. The custodian of petty cash should be independent of cashier or other employees handling
remittance from customers and other cash receipts. Finally, the amount of fund should be
44
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Doyle, J., W.Ge, & S.McVay (2010). Weakness in Internal Control over Financial Reportingand
the Implications for EarningsQuality. Working Paper.
Etuk, I. C. (2011). Evaluation of Internal Control System of Banks in Nigeria. A PhD. Dissertation,
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46
APPENDIX
We are final year students of the department of Accountancy, Ramat Polytechnic, Maiduguri. We
are currently conducting a research on “impact of internal control system on profit performance of
The research is in partial fulfillment of the requirement for the award of a National Diploma in
Accounting. It should be noted that the research shall be used for academic purpose only.
Yours Faithfully
47
QUESTIONNAIRE
SECTION A
This is purely an academic exercise and every information contained, shall be treated as
confidential. So respondents are employed to be truthful and sincere as possible.
1. Sex: Male
[ ], Female [ ]
2. Marital Statius:
Single [ ], Married [ ]
3. Age:
Below 30 [ ], 31 – 40 [ ], 41 – above [ ]
4. Educational Qualification:
5. Years of Experience:
SECTION B
Instruction: Please tick ( ) the correct answers from the options provided below.
1. Do you routinely evaluate the overall effectiveness of your internal control system?
3. Do the branch management and its representatives have complete access to records?
48
4. Is there effect of risk assessment on profit performance of commercial banks in Nigeria?
(a) Yes ( ) (b) No ( )
5. Are the systems of internal controls referred to in for above functioning as they are intended
to? (a) Yes ( ) (b) No ( )
7. Do you agree that the responsibility of internal control is that of the management?
8. Are there effects of control activities on the profit performance of commercial banks in
9. Does the accounting system records all the transactions of the bank and produce accurate
information capable of being relied upon by management and investors?
49