Iliya Smah

Iliya is the Chief Financial Officer at VIISAUS and a seasoned finance executive with more than two decades of experience across professional services, industry, and the public sector. His expertise spans financial management, audit, risk, and strategic advisory, supporting institutional growth and fiscal responsibility across diverse sectors.

He began his career with Ernst & Young and PricewaterhouseCoopers, contributing to high-profile national projects including the 2012 Petroleum Subsidy Audit, the unbundling of the Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN), and the establishment of the Efficiency Unit under the Federal Ministry of Finance. Over the years, he has held senior roles in maritime, telecommunications, mortgage banking, and financial services, including serving as Head of Internal Audit at a Central Bank of Nigeria subsidiary.

Iliya holds a Bachelor’s degree in Finance from Lagos State University and a Master of Science degree in Finance from the University of Leicester, United Kingdom. He is a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), an Associate of the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN), a PRINCE2 Professional, and ICAEW qualified.

At VIISAUS, Iliya oversees the firm’s financial strategy and governance, ensuring sound fiscal management, operational efficiency, and alignment with long-term growth objectives. Beyond his professional pursuits, he enjoys playing the keyboard and mentoring young professionals, reflecting his commitment to continuous learning and leadership development.