The newly inaugurated 26th Chairman of the Ibadan and District Society of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), Mrs. Salome Olabimpe Ajayi, has unveiled an ambitious agenda focused on education, professional development, ethical leadership and youth empowerment, promising to strengthen the accounting profession while creating more opportunities for aspiring accountants.
Speaking during her investiture ceremony in Ibadan, Ajayi said her administration would build on the achievements of previous executives through an inclusive leadership style that prioritises members’ welfare, capacity building and institutional growth.
She disclosed that her administration would pursue a 13-point strategic agenda covering key areas such as education and professional training, finance and fundraising, membership development, district growth and stakeholder engagement.
According to her, continuous learning and professional excellence remain critical to preparing accountants for the demands of a rapidly changing global economy.
Ajayi called on members to work together in advancing the goals of the district society, stressing that the success of her administration would depend on unity, collaboration and the collective commitment of members.
She acknowledged the support of past chairmen, the Board of Patrons, elders of the society and members of the executive committee, describing them as vital partners in achieving the vision of the new administration.
“The executive members will serve as first among equals,” she said, urging members to unite behind the society’s programmes and initiatives.
The investiture also witnessed the inauguration of the 2026/2027 Executive Committee, officially ushering in a new service year for the Ibadan and District Society. The event formed part of activities marking the Diamond Jubilee celebration of ICAN and attracted accounting professionals, industry leaders and distinguished guests from across the country.
Delivering the keynote address, the 62nd President of ICAN, Chief Queensley Sofuratu Seghosime, congratulated the new executive while commending the immediate past leadership for its contributions to the growth of the district.
He charged the new administration to intensify efforts at expanding membership, promoting ethical standards and preserving the integrity of the accounting profession, noting that accountants have a critical role to play in strengthening transparency, accountability and national economic development.
Chairman of the occasion, Oyeyemi Oluwafemi Oyetunji, expressed confidence in Ajayi’s ability to lead the district society successfully.
He described her as an accomplished professional with the competence, experience and vision required to move the society forward, urging members to support the new leadership in delivering programmes that would benefit both the profession and society.
In her valedictory address, the immediate past Chairman, Mrs. Olufunmilayo Omisore, reflected on the achievements of her administration, stating that the implementation of her seven-point agenda significantly strengthened professional development, youth mentorship, community service, innovation and institutional collaboration.
She attributed the successes recorded during her tenure to the unwavering commitment of members, the dedication of the executive committee and the support received from partners and stakeholders.
For Ibadan’s growing community of accounting students and young professionals, Ajayi’s strong emphasis on education, mentorship and continuous professional development is expected to create new opportunities for career advancement while reinforcing ICAN’s commitment to producing competent, ethical and globally competitive accountants. Her agenda also aligns with broader efforts to equip the next generation of professionals with the technical knowledge, leadership qualities and integrity needed to thrive in today’s evolving financial and business environment.
