The 2024 ‘Young Tax Professional of the Year’ competition, organized by EY Nigeria, has concluded, with winners announced following a rigorous selection process. The competition attracted an impressive 425 applications from students across 53 tertiary institutions in Nigeria, showcasing the strong interest in the field of taxation among young scholars. The overall winner of the competition is Miss Uyodhu Agadaga, a final-year student from Nile University, Abuja. First and second runners-up were Kolawole Olaniyan and Nahomi Okikiri, both representing the University of Lagos. The high number of submissions illustrates the importance of recognizing and nurturing potential talent within the tax profession at an early stage.
The selection process for the competition was multifaceted, emphasizing not only knowledge of taxation but also critical skills such as logical reasoning, quantitative analysis, research, and case studies. Out of the initial 425 applicants, a total of 274 were shortlisted and subsequently narrowed down to 57 in the quarter-final stage, and then to 30 during the semi-finals. In the final showdown, ten outstanding students emerged, showcasing a commendable level of talent and determination. These included representatives from various institutions, indicating a diverse interest in tax professions across Nigeria’s educational landscape.
The finalists were invited to participate in a grand finale held at EY Nigeria’s Lagos office, where they received certificates, awards, and gifts celebrating their achievements. Miss Uyodhu Agadaga, as the overall winner, has been awarded the opportunity to represent EY Nigeria at a global competition, where she will face off against other young tax professionals from EY offices worldwide. Additionally, all ten finalists will gain access to internship and mentorship programs with EY Nigeria, further enhancing their experience and exposure to the industry.
Akeem Ogunseni, an Associate Partner in Tax Services and Director of the program, underscored the importance of targeting students who demonstrate a strong interest in taxation through this competition. By employing eight different pillars of selection, benchmarked against international standards, EY Nigeria aims to raise the bar for young professionals entering the tax field. This structured approach not only identifies those with potential but also enriches their learning experience, which is critical for their future careers.
Akinbiyi Abudu, Partner and EY Tax Leader for West Africa, expressed his delight at the results of the competition, emphasizing the significance of the competition as a platform for grooming future tax leaders. Abudu highlighted the dedication of the participants, acknowledging the hard work and effort they invested throughout the competition. By fostering enthusiasm and commitment to the tax profession, EY Nigeria is playing a vital role in preparing the next generation to inhabit leadership positions in the field, ensuring continuity and innovation in tax practices.
Although the global Young Tax Professional of the Year competition has been running for over a decade, EY Nigeria introduced its national version three years ago to identify and nurture promising talent within the country. This initiative aligns with EY’s broader mission to connect with emerging professionals in the tax community while also contributing to the professional landscape in Nigeria. By emphasizing mentorship and internship opportunities alongside the competition, EY Nigeria is not only highlighting the importance of academic achievement but also preparing students for real-world applications of their knowledge in taxation.
