By Chijioke Ogbodo
ICAN, also known as the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria, is a professional body that oversees the training, registration, and regulation of accountants in Nigeria. Established in 1965, ICAN plays a crucial role in setting and maintaining high standards of professionalism and ethical conduct within the accounting profession. Recently, ICAN held the investiture and inauguration of a new district society in Agbani, Nkanu West Local Government Area of Enugu State, Nigeria, showcasing its commitment to expanding its reach across the country.
During the investiture ceremony for Prof Uche Lucy Onyekwelu, the pioneer chairman of ICAN Agbani and District Society, Dr. Innocent Okwuosa, PhD, FCIB, CIPA, FCA, the 59th President of ICAN, eloquently elucidated the institute’s indispensable role as a vanguard for transparency and accountability in the intricate landscape of Nigeria’s public finance management. Dr. Okwuosa, in emphasizing ICAN’s dedication to these paramount principles, expressed sanguine expectations that the newly established district would effectively amplify the voice advocating for accountability and transparency within the regional context of Enugu State. His insightful discourse not only underscored the specific mission of Agbani and District Society but also resonated with ICAN’s broader commitment to upholding professional standards and ethical practices in the dynamic realm of financial management.
“The institute plays a very important role in advocating for transparency and accountability in public finance management in Nigeria. We have the ICAN accountability index,” stated Dr. Okwuosa while addressing attendees.
ICAN insignia
He expressed optimism that ICAN Agbani and District Society would contribute to the voice for better accountability and transparency in Enugu State. “Our expectation is that ICAN Agbani and District Society would help us lend a voice so that better accountability and transparency will be heard in Enugu State.”
Confident in the leadership, Dr. Okwuosa remarked, “I am very confident with the professional and administrative abilities of the chairman and her incoming executive, as she has already distinguished herself in other similar establishments where she leads.”
Speaking on the importance of attracting new entrants, he noted, “With all of you seated here today, I am optimistic that Agbani and District Society will do a great job in attracting all of you into the profession.”
Acknowledging the challenge of attracting young people to accounting, Dr. Okwuosa thanked attendees for being present, stating, “I can testify that the accounting profession is still very attractive.” He also expressed gratitude to Enugu and District Society for their cooperation and encouraged continuous collaboration between the two districts.
Dr. Okwuosa thanked the executive team, expressing confidence in their success. “Let me thank the Exco that will work with Prof., together you will succeed, together you will have an easy journey and you will succeed in all KPIs that have been allocated to you. Agbani and District Society will grow from strength to strength, and birth more districts.”
ICAN president Dr. Okwuosa (L) inducting Prof. Onyekwelu
In the momentous gathering at Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT), the investiture of Prof. Onyekwelu as the pioneer chairman of the newest ICAN district society of Agbani took place.
Professor Uche Lucy Onyekwelu, in her acceptance speech as the inaugural chairman of Agbani and District Society of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), conveyed deep appreciation for the occasion’s significance. She stated, “I am truly honoured to stand before you on this momentous occasion,” emphasizing the importance of advancing accountancy professionalism in the region.
Expressing gratitude for ICAN’s endorsement of the district’s creation, Professor Onyekwelu specifically thanked the 59th President of ICAN, Innocent Okwuosa, and other council members for their presence. She remarked, “This day holds significant meaning, not just for the birth of the Agbani and District Society but for the advancement of accountancy professionalism in our region.”
Acknowledging the challenges faced in pioneering the district, Professor Onyekwelu recognized the dedication of the Enugu & District leadership, past chairman Mrs. Catherine Ifeoma Otiji, and others. She noted, “Pioneering anything has never been an easy task, but the resolute commitment of all concerned has metamorphosed into the celebration of today.”
Outlining the policy thrust for her chairmanship year, she stated, “My chairmanship year will pursue distinct programmes to further engrave the name of Agbani & District in the sands of time.” These programs include expanding ICAN’s membership, fostering educational initiatives, establishing relationships for student internships, organizing workshops, collaborating with stakeholders, encouraging member participation, supporting new members, and maintaining ties with the ICAN National Secretariat. Additionally, she introduced the Businessmen-Professional Round Table, emphasizing its role in knowledge sharing between business owners and professional accountants.
Prof. Onyekwelu (in long gown) and her Exco members
She performed first task of her chairmanship year by inaugurating other members of her executive committee.
The inaugurated executive committee members of the district include Isaac Okoh, Vice Chairman, who is the immediate past Bursar of ESUT, Friday C. Ogbodo, General Secretary, Benedicta Ngene, Treasurer, Ukamaka Nweke, Financial Secretary, Ifeyinwa Nnajieze, Technical Secretary, Chukwuebuka Onovo, Social and Publicity Secretary, Calister Aninwike, Assistant Secretary, Sunday Ijegalu, Ex-officio 1 and Mark Eze, Ex-officio II.
This occasion, which was chaired by Chief Simon Aniobi, and attended by Engr Titus Onyekwelu, husband to the chairman, Dr. Augustine Ojeh, chairman, ICAN Emugu District and Society (EDS) who doubles as ESUT Bursar, and Ifeoma Otiji, immediate past chairman of ICAN EDS, also brought together the academic and professional worlds, exemplified the harmonious blend of “Town and Gown.” With Prof. Onyekwelu’s esteemed professorial background, his appointment as chairman underscores the credibility and expertise she brings to the accounting profession. The event, held at the prestigious Professor Julius Onah Auditorium within the university’s premises, symbolized the collaboration between academia and industry, fostering an environment of knowledge-sharing and growth for students and professionals in the field of accounting.
Professor Uche Lucy Onyekwelu, PhD., FAMSSRN, FFAR, FCA, is also the Head Department of Accountancy Enugu State University of and Technology, ESUT, a Fellow of ICAN, Founding & Pioneer President & Fellow Association of Management and Social Sciences Researchers of Nigeria, AMSSRN, Fellow Association of Forensic Researchers and Associate member of The Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria, CITN
Earlier, the 59th President, Dr Okwuosa and his entourage paid a courtesy visit on the Vice Chancellor of ESUT, Prof. Aloysius Okolie.
L-R: Prof Aloysius Okolie, ESUT VC and Dr. Okwuosa
ICAN currently consists of 77 district societies, each serving accountants and accounting professionals in specific regions throughout Nigeria, USA and UK. GMTNews
