Haruna Yahaya, the newly inaugurated 61st president of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), has unveiled an ambitious 10-point agenda focused on propelling the institute into a new era of digital proficiency, global competitiveness, and youth engagement. His vision, articulated during his acceptance speech, emphasizes a comprehensive transformation of ICAN’s operations and a renewed commitment to serving its members and the Nigerian economy. Yahaya’s presidency promises significant shifts in the institute’s approach to professional development, certification, and its role in national economic development. He emphasized the urgency of adapting to the rapidly evolving digital landscape, positioning ICAN as a tech-forward institution and championing the empowerment of the next generation of accounting professionals.
Central to Yahaya’s plan is the complete digitization of the ICAN examination process. Recognizing the imperative of embracing technological advancements, he outlined a phased approach to this digital transformation, with implementation slated to commence in November 2025. This initiative aims to modernize the certification process, making it more efficient, accessible, and aligned with the demands of the digital age. Beyond examinations, Yahaya envisions a digital-first approach across all aspects of ICAN’s operations, including communication, student support, and content delivery, ensuring resonance with the digitally native younger generation. This overarching digital strategy is crucial for maintaining ICAN’s relevance and attracting the best and brightest talent.
Recognizing the importance of nurturing the next generation of accounting professionals, Yahaya has prioritized youth empowerment as a cornerstone of his agenda. His plan includes providing Gen Z with increased opportunities for involvement within the institute, including volunteer positions, leadership roles, and platforms to share their perspectives at conferences. This focus on youth engagement aims to cultivate a sense of ownership and responsibility among young members, ensuring a vibrant and dynamic future for the profession. By fostering a culture of inclusivity and innovation, Yahaya seeks to position ICAN as a forward-thinking institution that embraces the energy and perspectives of its younger members.
Furthermore, Yahaya’s presidency promises a revitalized approach to Continuous Professional Development (CPD). He plans to introduce modules focusing on emerging trends shaping the accounting profession, including technology adoption, cybersecurity, risk management, sustainability, data analytics, and talent management. This proactive approach to CPD ensures that ICAN members are equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to navigate the complexities of the modern business landscape. By offering cutting-edge training programs, ICAN aims to empower its members to not just survive, but thrive, and become leaders in their respective fields. This commitment to continuous learning and professional growth is essential for maintaining the high standards of the accounting profession and ensuring its relevance in a constantly evolving world.
Yahaya also underscores the importance of global recognition and collaboration. He aims to strengthen Mutual Recognition Agreements with leading international accounting bodies and pursue joint certification programs. This strategic approach will provide ICAN members with globally recognized credentials and access to international career opportunities. By forging partnerships with respected global institutions, ICAN seeks to enhance the value of its certification and expand the horizons of its members. This global outlook will position Nigerian chartered accountants as competitive players on the international stage, capable of contributing to the global economy.
Finally, Yahaya emphasizes ICAN’s critical role in strengthening Nigeria’s economic landscape. He envisions the institute as a custodian of trust, actively contributing to the fight against corruption, promoting transparency, and advocating for good governance. This commitment to ethical conduct and accountability is crucial for fostering investor confidence and driving sustainable economic growth. By working closely with regulators and public institutions, ICAN aims to elevate professional standards in auditing, assurance, and financial reporting. This proactive approach will solidify ICAN’s position as a trusted partner in nation-building and a champion of ethical business practices. Yahaya concluded by calling on all members to embrace this vision and work together to build a more inclusive, innovative, and influential ICAN, leaving a lasting legacy for future generations. His presidency promises a period of significant transformation and growth for the institute, positioning it as a key driver of professional excellence and economic development in Nigeria.
