From Finance to Technology: Adedotun Adeniyi’s Pioneering Role in SOX Compliance and Technology Risk Management

In an era where digital transformation is reshaping industries globally, the demand for experts in regulatory compliance and technology risk management is at an all-time high. Among these experts, Adedotun Adeniyi, a world-class SOX Senior Analyst, has emerged as a prominent figure in both finance and technology. With six years of hands-on experience in technology risk management within the financial sector and a leading role at one of the world’s largest energy corporations, Adeniyi is driving advancements in secure, regulatory-compliant systems.

Adeniyi’s expertise in IT SOX compliance has made him a key contributor to operational stability across sectors. His work designing frameworks that enhance organizational integrity and reduce risks has had a profound impact on both African markets and global enterprises. As someone who began his career in Nigeria and then moved to the United Kingdom, he brings a unique international perspective, continuously supporting Nigerian firms by mentoring professionals and consulting on regulatory compliance. His efforts have not only improved organizational resilience but have also fostered a culture of compliance essential for today’s interconnected business world.

Known for his forward-thinking strategies, Adeniyi has set a high bar for industry standards through his commitment to SOX compliance and his innovative approach to technology risk management. By bridging finance and technology, his work strengthens both the financial and energy sectors in the UK, Nigeria, and beyond.

In a recent interview, Adeniyi discussed IT SOX in Nigeria, highlighting critical data protection gaps. For example, earlier this year, Nigerian citizens were shocked to learn that personal information—such as Bank Verification Numbers (BVN) and National Identification Numbers (NIN)—was being sold on the web for as little as $0.10 per request, exposing millions to identity theft and financial fraud. Another example came in August 2024, when U.S.-based Mercury Bank closed accounts for businesses in 37 countries, including 13 African nations like Nigeria. While these accounts generated less than 1% of the bank’s revenue, they accounted for nearly 50% of its compliance costs, revealing a need for more stringent financial controls.

Adeniyi explained the significance of IT SOX, a lesser-known component of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act (SOX), a landmark U.S. financial regulation introduced to prevent corporate fraud. IT SOX ensures the integrity of digital systems that manage financial data. For Nigeria, where digital financial transactions are surging, IT SOX could greatly improve corporate governance and trustworthiness, crucial in a developing economy facing its own unique challenges.

The primary goal of IT SOX is to secure data integrity, confidentiality, and transparency in financial reporting. As Nigerian corporations, banks, and fintech startups increasingly rely on digital systems, robust controls and standards are essential to protect these processes. IT SOX lays out guidelines for designing, implementing, and regularly auditing IT systems involved in financial data. Adeniyi emphasized that adopting these standards would help Nigerian companies achieve greater accountability, reduce fraud, and enhance transparency, aligning them with global compliance practices.

Adedotun Adeniyi’s work in IT SOX compliance is transforming regulatory practices in the financial and technology sectors, empowering organizations to manage risks effectively and securely. With his expertise, Adeniyi is helping to pave the way for a safer and more resilient future in finance and technology across Nigeria and the global stage.