The newly inaugurated 61st President of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), Haruna Yahaya, has unveiled an ambitious 10-point agenda aimed at transforming the Institute into a digitally driven, globally competitive, and youth-focused professional body.
Yahaya, who formally took office on Tuesday, succeeds Davidson Alaribe, the 60th president of the Institute.
In his acceptance speech, Yahaya laid out a bold vision for ICAN, announcing plans to fully digitise the institute’s examination process, beginning with the November 2025 diet, as part of a phased rollout.
“The world is racing forward on the wings of digital innovation and we must not be left behind,” Yahaya declared. “In today’s fast-evolving landscape, digital transformation is no longer a strategic option; it is an existential imperative.”
Positioning ICAN for the Future
Yahaya pledged to make ICAN more appealing to younger Nigerians, particularly Gen Z, by introducing leadership and volunteer opportunities, youth-led panels at conferences, and tech-forward communication strategies.
“We will adopt a digital-first approach in our communication, student support, and content delivery using platforms and styles that resonate with the rhythm of the new generation,” he said.
He also committed to revamping Continual Professional Development (CPD) programmes, introducing new modules on emerging global trends such as:
- Cybersecurity and risk management
- Sustainability and climate change
- Digital transformation and data analytics
- Talent acquisition and the changing work environment
Yahaya explained that the aim is not just to educate, but to build future-ready leaders equipped to thrive and lead in a rapidly changing economic environment.
Global Certification and Strategic Industry Links
To deepen ICAN’s international standing, Yahaya announced that the Institute would pursue stronger Mutual Recognition Agreements and joint certification programmes with top global accountancy bodies. These efforts, he said, will allow ICAN members to earn world-class credentials and access international career opportunities.
“Together, we shall co-develop specialised certifications in high-demand areas such as forensic accounting, sustainability reporting, and digital transformation,” Yahaya said. “Our members must be globally competitive not as job seekers, but as solution providers.”
He also promised to establish strategic partnerships with employers in both the public and private sectors to bridge the gap between certification and employment through internships, mentorships, and project-based engagements.
Driving National Development and Good Governance
Yahaya emphasized ICAN’s potential to be a key player in Nigeria’s economic and institutional development, pledging to make the Institute a trusted ally to regulators in promoting transparency, anti-corruption, and governance reform.
“Trust is the most valuable currency in any economy, and ICAN must be its custodian,” he said. “We will support national development through technical assistance, regulatory collaboration, and promoting best practices in financial reporting and audit standards.”
He also highlighted the role of forensic accounting and risk management in fraud prevention and pledged that ICAN will take a more active role in national dialogue on regulatory reform.
A Call to Rebuild and Reimagine
Concluding his address, Yahaya urged ICAN members and stakeholders to embrace the journey ahead with courage and collaboration:
“This is the hour to reimagine and rebuild an ICAN that speaks to the aspirations of a new era more inclusive, more innovative, and more influential,” he said. “We must deliver a legacy that is globally relevant, nationally impactful, and generationally empowering.”
Dignitaries in Attendance
The inauguration ceremony was graced by notable guests, including:
- Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, represented by the Commissioner for Finance, Abayomi Oluyomi
- Deputy Governor of Jigawa State, Aminu Usman
- Attorney-General of Jigawa State, Abdulqadir Fanini
- Executive Secretary, Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria, Dr. Rabiu Olowo
- President, Association of National Accountants of Nigeria, Zuwaira Kishimi
- President, Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria, Professor Pius Olanrewaju
Others included industry leaders, professional peers, and members of the ICAN Council.
