By Abubakar Imam
The President of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), Dr Innocent Iweka Okwusa, has commended the fascinating leadership qualities of a former Head, Department of Accounting, University of Ilorin, Prof. Khadijat Adenola Yahaya.
Dr Okwuosa made this commendation last Wednesday (February 28, 2024) while speaking at the foundation laying ceremony of the secretariat complex of the Ilorin and District Society of ICAN. The project is located on Coca-Cola Road, Iloriin.
The ICAN President explained that he has been following the giant strides of the distinguished Professor of Accounting since she assumed the leadership of the Ilorin and District Society of the professional body.
Dr Okwuosa noted that the initiation of the construction of the secretariat by Prof.Yahaya’s administration is a mark of her exceptional leadership qualities, adding that the decision to begin the construction is a worthy and commendable development.
The ICAN President, however, said that he was not surprised with the quality performance of Prof. Yahaya in the leadership of the Ilorin and District Society of ICAN, saying that she has proven that “what a man can do a woman can do it better”.
He noted that Prof. Yahaya has admirably combined erudition with professionalism and positive feminism,which he said reflected clearly in the discharge of her leadership responsibilities.
Dr Okwuosa encouraged members of the Ilorin and District Society of ICAN to cooperate fully with Prof. Yahaya to ensure the completion of the project within record time and to facilitate more achievements for the Ilorin and District Society of ICAN.
He also challenged members of ICAN allover the country and beyond to always exhibit the virtues of accuracy and integrity not only in their professional conduct but also in their interactions with others.
Dr Okwuosa explained that members of ICAN must always live above board not just to guard their reputations as Chartered Accountants but also to preserve the agelong image of the professional body.
Speaking earlier, Prof. Yahaya said that she was honoured with the presence of the ICAN President and his entourage. She explained that the piece of land on which the secretariat is to be situated was acquired by the Ilorin and District Society of ICAN about ten years ago.
The renowned academic thanked the Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Prof.Wahab Olasupo Egbewole, SAN, for the support extended to by the University administration, which she said has been encouraging her to work harder both as an academic and the leader of the professional body.
She added that the proposed edifice would not only serve as the secretariat of the Ilorin and District Society but also a study centre for the training of future Chartered Accountants.
The ICAN President was accompanied on the visit by the Vice President of ICAN, Chief D.C.S. Alaribe; Dr Deji Awobotu and Mr Emmanuel Irem, both of whom are ICAN Council Members as well as the Deputy Registrar, Technical Services,Dr Ijeoma Anaso.
The event was also attended by the Vice Chairman, Ilorin District and Society Alhaji T. T. Tewogbola; the Secretary, Mrs Fagbile Bosede and other executive members of the ICAN Ilorin and District Society as well as Mr M. T. Alabi,the Chairman of the Project Committee and well wishers from far and near.
The President and his entourage,who appreciated the hospitality of Prof. Yahaya and her members, have since returned safely to Lagos.
