DETERMINANTS OF EXTERNAL AUDIT FEES ON AUDITORS FEES: EVIDENCE FROM NIGERIAN AGRICULTURAL FIRMS

This study ascertained the effect of external audit fees determinants affected the audit fees of Nigerian agricultural firms. The specific objectives are to; determine the effect of client size on audit fees of Nigerian agricultural firms, and evaluate the effect of client profitability on audit fees of Nigerian agricultural firms. Ex-Post facto research design was employed for the study. A sample of five (5) agricultural firms in Nigeria. Data were extracted from annual reports and accounts of listed agricultural firms in Nigeria from 2013 to 2023. The study used multiple regressions analysis to test the hypotheses via E-view 9.0. Based on the results, The study found that client size has a negative and insignificant effect on audit fees of agricultural firms in Nigeria. The study revealed that client profitsbility has a negative and significant effect on audit fees of agricultural firms in Nigeria. Based on the findings, the study recommended among others that client firm size need to used as a major criterion in the determination of audit fees in Nigeria. Government regulating agencies should see to the issue of audit fees charged by auditors for engaging in audit exercise. It should be clearly reviewed and documented under the section in the Companies and Allied Matters Act that is concerned with the remuneration of the auditors of a firm.