The transition took place at the Council Chambers of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria in Victoria Island, where senior members of the profession, government representatives, and private sector leaders gathered for the investiture of Hajiya Seghosime.
The ceremony marked both a celebration of continuity and a reflection on reforms introduced under the outgoing 61st President, Mallam Haruna Yahaya, whose tenure focused heavily on digital transformation, governance strengthening, and expanding professional capacity.
Digital Exams, Institutional Reform and Modernisation Drive
Speaking during his valedictory address, Yahaya outlined a reform agenda that reshaped ICAN’s operational direction, particularly in its examination and certification processes.
He explained that the institute had begun a gradual shift toward technology-enabled assessments, stating:
“We intensified youth-focused engagement programmes, including digital town halls and social media campaigns,”
While referring to broader engagement strategies, he noted that the reforms extended beyond outreach to include structural upgrades in examination delivery, including the introduction of secure, proctored online assessments aimed at improving transparency and efficiency.
According to him, the changes represent a long-term repositioning of ICAN to remain relevant in a financial ecosystem increasingly shaped by digital tools, automation, and global standards.
Expanding Professional Capacity and Youth Engagement
Yahaya also highlighted efforts to strengthen the institute’s human capital development initiatives, particularly targeting young professionals and students entering the accounting field.
He noted that ICAN expanded mentorship programmes, digital learning platforms, and outreach initiatives designed to attract Gen Z participants into the profession. These efforts, he said, contributed to increased student interest and registration within the year.
Beyond recruitment, the outgoing leadership also prioritised skills development in emerging areas such as data analytics, sustainability reporting, risk management, and technology-driven auditing.
Strengthening Governance, Ethics and Public Accountability
A major theme of the outgoing administration was deepening collaboration with regulatory and anti-corruption institutions to reinforce ethical standards across both public and private sectors.
Yahaya explained that new forensic accounting programmes and partnerships were introduced to enhance transparency and accountability frameworks within the profession.
He also referenced ICAN’s wider institutional outreach, including engagement with universities, corporate bodies, and international accounting organisations, as part of efforts to strengthen its global relevance.
Reflecting on the institute’s milestone anniversary, he added that ICAN’s 60th anniversary served as a turning point for redefining its long-term vision beyond legacy achievements.
“The foundation has been strengthened. The vision has been clarified. The opportunities before us are immense,” he said.
New Leadership Takes Over Amid Financial Sector Transformation
The incoming president, Hajiya Seghosime, assumes office at a time when Nigeria’s financial sector is undergoing rapid change driven by digital payment systems, regulatory adjustments, and rising demand for stronger professional oversight.
Stakeholders at the event noted that her administration is expected to consolidate ongoing reforms while expanding ICAN’s influence in shaping accounting standards, financial governance, and professional education both within Nigeria and internationally.
Calls for Continuity and Institutional Strengthening
The investiture ceremony also attracted senior government officials, regulators, traditional leaders, and business executives, underscoring ICAN’s continued relevance in Nigeria’s governance and economic framework.
Among them was Monday Okpebholo, who commended ICAN’s contributions to accountability and public sector reform.
He highlighted the ICAN Accountability Index as a useful governance tool, stating:
“Such independent assessments provide valuable feedback that helps governments measure progress and identify areas for further action,”
Okpebholo further urged the new leadership to deepen professional ethics, strengthen institutional capacity, and continue investing in the next generation of accountants.
As ICAN transitions into its new leadership era, attention now turns to how effectively the institute will sustain its reform momentum while navigating an increasingly digital and globally competitive financial landscape.