By Milcah Tanimu
The Nigerian accounting profession is mourning the loss of Pa Akintola Williams, a true icon in the field, who passed away at the age of 104. Pa Akintola devoted a significant part of his life to the accounting profession, leaving an indelible mark as a mentor to generations of chartered accountants.
One of his most remarkable achievements was becoming the first Sub-Saharan African to attain the status of a chartered accountant, passing the qualifying examination of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of England and Wales (ICAEW) in 1949. His dedication to the profession extended beyond personal success, as he played a pivotal role in the development of the accountancy field in Nigeria. He was instrumental in establishing the Association of Accountants in Nigeria, which later evolved into the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN).
As a founding member of ICAN, Pa Akintola Williams contributed significantly to the growth and recognition of the accounting profession in Nigeria. His impact extended to the financial sector, where he played a key role in the establishment of the Nigerian Stock Exchange, now known as the Nigerian Exchange Group.
Aside from his prominent role in accounting, Pa Akintola Williams was a seasoned administrator, accomplished management consultant, and a serial entrepreneur during his active career. His educational journey included obtaining a Bachelor of Commerce Degree with a specialization in Banking and Finance from the University of London in 1946. He subsequently became a Chartered Accountant in England.
Following his service as an assessment officer with the Inland Revenue from 1950 to 1952, he ventured into entrepreneurship by founding Akintola Williams & Co., which became the first indigenous firm of chartered accountants in Africa and is now known as Deloitte & Touche Nigeria.
Pa Akintola Williams celebrated his remarkable 104th birthday on August 9, leaving behind a legacy of excellence and leadership in the Nigerian accounting profession and beyond.
