The Governing Council of the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN) has confirmed Mrs. Afolake Oso as the new registrar and chief executive of the institute, effective October 18, 2024. This significant appointment follows a distinguished career trajectory for Oso within the CITN over the past 16 years. According to Oyeronke Ojo, the Director of Corporate and Internal Services at CITN, Oso’s journey began in 2008 as a manager in the research department, where she showcased her skills and commitment to excellence in the field of taxation.
Oso’s career advancement within the CITN is indicative of her dedication and competence. By 2015, she transitioned to the role of acting head of education and research, subsequently being confirmed in that position the same year. Her capabilities led to further promotions, including becoming an assistant director in 2016 and later taking on responsibilities in the Exams and Student Affairs Department in 2017. These roles enabled her to demonstrate her leadership abilities and broaden her impact on the institute’s educational operations.
She continued to rise through the ranks, taking on the position of head of the Corporate Affairs Department in 2018. In a bid to enhance the institute’s operational effectiveness, she was later appointed as acting deputy director for corporate services and membership in 2020. This role included oversight of the corporate services, membership, and external relations, reflecting her growing influence in the governance and outreach aspects of the CITN. Oso’s expertise and performance prompted the council to elevate her to deputy registrar of technical and professional services in 2021, recognizing her potential to drive transformative changes within the organization.
Her experience prior to her acting appointment as registrar and chief executive in January 2024 underscores Oso’s robust qualifications for this leadership role. With a legal background and comprehensive experience in various CITN departments, she has long been seen as a suitable candidate to lead the institute effectively. Oso’s appointment is expected to bring a renewed focus on repositioning and rebranding the institute, aiming for greater operational effectiveness and outreach to the taxation community in Nigeria.
Throughout her career, she has committed to continuous development, participating in various local and international training programs to enhance her skills and knowledge. Notably, she attended a one-month policy, strategy, and leadership course at the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies in Jos, which reflects her dedication to professional growth and leadership development. These experiences will likely inform her approach to the responsibilities of registrar and chief executive, as she seeks to position the CITN favorably in a changing taxation landscape.
Ultimately, Mrs. Afolake Oso’s appointment as registrar and chief executive of the CITN marks a significant milestone for both her personal career and the institute’s governance. Her extensive experience and proven track record within the organization position her well to lead and implement strategic initiatives that will enhance the CITN’s effectiveness and responsiveness to the needs of its stakeholders. The CITN looks forward to her leadership as it navigates emerging challenges and opportunities in the field of taxation in Nigeria.