The Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria has inaugurated the Ifako-Ijaiye District Society in Lagos, marking a strategic milestone in its drive to enhance professional development, ethical standards, and community engagement at the grassroots level.
The inauguration ceremony, held recently, is part of ICAN’s decentralisation strategy, which aims to expand the institute’s presence across the country and bring its activities closer to members.
Newly appointed Chairman of the ICAN Ifako-Ijaiye District, Mrs Florence Akinsola, described the launch as “a long-awaited dream fulfilled”, noting that it would create vital opportunities for local professionals.
“For years, we’ve clamoured for this district. I’m grateful it came to pass during my tenure,” Akinsola said. “This district gives our members a platform to grow professionally and actively participate in ICAN’s activities. More importantly, it opens up opportunities for mentorship, peer support, and consistent knowledge sharing.”
She announced plans to establish a district secretariat that would include a modern library designed to serve both members and the wider community.
“Our vision includes a well-equipped library where students preparing for ICAN exams can study and where young people in the community can be inspired to pursue careers in accounting,” she said. “This district will serve as a hub for both professional excellence and community development.”
Akinsola reaffirmed the district’s commitment to organising seminars, workshops, and mentorship programmes targeted at enhancing members’ competence and upholding professional ethics.
“This isn’t just about structures; it’s about people and partnerships,” she added. “Our focus is to make Ifako-Ijaiye a beacon of ethical accounting and continuous professional development.”
In his keynote address, ICAN President Mr Davidson Alaribe stated that the creation of the district is one of 26 new districts established this presidential year as part of the institute’s broader plan to strengthen its reach nationwide.
“This is one of 26 new districts created this presidential year. Our goal is to extend ICAN’s reach to the grassroots and foster a culture of accountability, professionalism, and ethical leadership across Nigeria,” Alaribe said.
He highlighted the essential role that accountants play in national development, stressing the need for professionals to uphold integrity in a challenging economic climate.
“Accountants are the gatekeepers of every economy. They ensure prudent resource management and guide organisations toward long-term sustainability,” he said. “In an era when the celebration of unexplained wealth is rampant, we must uphold values of integrity and ask the right questions.”
Deputy Chairman of the Ifako-Ijaiye District, Mr Phillips Olofinsawe, said the district would serve as a platform for grooming professionals who are not only competent but also morally upright.
“With this launch, ICAN further cements its commitment to raising professionals who will not only thrive in Nigeria’s economy but also serve as moral compasses in the corporate and public sectors,” he said.
Also speaking, Chairperson of ICAN’s Ikeja District, Mrs Abioye Balogun, popularly known as Bebenlo, described the inauguration as both symbolic and strategic for the profession.
She said, “This new district removes distance as a barrier. Our members can now access ICAN programmes closer to home. However, I advise the new executives to prioritise unity. As a young district, there will be distractions. Stay focused, collaborate closely, and invest in youth-targeted programmes like catch-them-young initiatives in secondary schools.”
