Youthplus is a Not-for-Profit Organisation (NFPO) established by well-meaning Nigerians. The aims and objectives of the NFPO include raising funds to assist youth corpers who, after their service, are unable to secure employment, to start small-scale businesses instead of waiting for white-collar jobs that are not in existence. NFPO solicits funds from the public, private, and foreign organisations. Youthplus has been in existence for five years, and your firm has been appointed as their auditors.

Required:
What factors would you put into consideration when carrying out the audit of Youthplus in the following areas?
a. Planning (4 Marks)
b. Risk (4 Marks)
c. Internal control (4 Marks)
d. Audit evidence (4 Marks)
e. Reporting (4 Marks)

a. Planning Considerations:

  1. Understanding the NFPO’s Objectives: Familiarize with Youthplus’s mission, goals, and operational environment to tailor the audit approach.
  2. Regulatory Compliance: Ensure awareness of the legal and regulatory requirements applicable to NFPOs in Nigeria.
  3. Stakeholder Expectations: Consider the interests of stakeholders, including donors, beneficiaries, and the board, in the planning process.
  4. Resource Allocation: Assess the resources (time, personnel, and expertise) required to effectively conduct the audit.

b. Risk Considerations:

  1. Funding Sources: Evaluate the risks associated with different funding sources (public, private, foreign) and their impact on financial reporting.
  2. Fraud Risks: Identify potential areas of fraud risk, especially related to fund solicitation and allocation.
  3. Operational Risks: Assess risks related to the NFPO’s operations, including program effectiveness and sustainability of initiatives.
  4. Financial Management Risks: Evaluate the risks associated with financial management practices, including budgeting and cash flow management.

c. Internal Control Considerations:

  1. Control Environment: Evaluate the overall control environment, including the tone set by management and the board regarding ethical practices.
  2. Segregation of Duties: Assess whether there is an adequate segregation of duties in financial processes to prevent fraud and errors.
  3. Fundraising Controls: Review controls related to fundraising activities to ensure proper handling and recording of funds raised.
  4. Monitoring Controls: Evaluate the effectiveness of ongoing monitoring controls to ensure compliance with internal policies and procedures.

d. Audit Evidence Considerations:

  1. Source of Evidence: Determine the reliability of evidence sources, including documentation from fundraising activities and grant applications.
  2. Types of Evidence: Consider the types of evidence needed, including financial records, donor agreements, and expenditure reports.
  3. Sampling Techniques: Decide on appropriate sampling techniques for transactions related to fund raising and program expenditures.
  4. Verification of Impact: Assess the need for evidence regarding the impact of funded programs, which may require additional procedures.

e. Reporting Considerations:

  1. Clear Communication: Ensure the audit report clearly communicates the findings and opinions in a way that is understandable to all stakeholders.
  2. Compliance with Standards: Adhere to relevant auditing standards and guidelines specific to NFPOs in preparing the audit report.
  3. Highlighting Key Issues: Address significant issues encountered during the audit, including any non-compliance with regulations or internal controls.
  4. Recommendations: Provide constructive recommendations for improving financial management and operational effectiveness.