European Journal of Accounting, Finance and Investment

Forensic Accounting Techniques And Financial Performance Of Selected Consumer Goods Companies In Rivers State, Nigeria

AMADI Ngozi Eleba PhD

Department of Accounting, Faculty of Administration and Management, Rivers State University, Nkpolu Port Harcourt Rivers State, Nigeria.

JONAH Ngbomowa Moses PhD

Department of Accounting, Faculty of Administration and Management, Rivers State University, Nkpolu Port Harcourt Rivers State, Nigeria.

OKWO Chibuike StephenPhD

Director of Procurement, Bonny LGA, Rivers State Nigeria

Keywords: Forensic Accounting, Fraud Detection Techniques, Forensic Audit Procedures, Financial Performance, Consumer Goods Companies, Rivers State, Nigeria

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Abstract

This study investigates the effect of forensic accounting techniques on the financial performance of selected consumer goods companies in Rivers State, Nigeria. Specifically, it examines how fraud detection techniques and forensic audit procedures influence profitability and revenue efficiency and cost management. The study adopts a descriptive survey research design, targeting accounting and finance personnel, internal auditors, and management staff of selected companies. A structured questionnaire was used to collect primary data from 125 respondents, and data were analyzed using descriptive statistics (mean, standard deviation) and inferential statistics (multiple regression analysis). The findings reveal that both fraud detection techniques (β = 0.42, p = 0.001) and forensic audit procedures (β = 0.38, p = 0.002) have a positive and significant effect on financial performance. The regression model indicates that 63% of the variance in financial performance is explained by the adoption of forensic accounting techniques. The study concludes that effective implementation of forensic accounting practices significantly enhances profitability and revenue efficiency in consumer goods companies. Based on these findings, the study recommends that companies institutionalize fraud detection mechanisms, conduct regular forensic audits, provide staff training, adopt digital tools for monitoring financial transactions, and integrate forensic accounting into corporate governance frameworks.

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