Akintola Williams, Nigeria's first indigenous chartered accountant, passed away at the age of 104. He played a pivotal role in shaping the accounting profession in Nigeria and established accounting standards and practices in the country. Through his contributions, he has left a lasting impact on Nigeria's financial landscape, and his legacy will be remembered for generations to come.
Lagos, Nigeria - Nigeria is mourning the loss of Akintola Williams, the country's first indigenous chartered accountant, who passed away on Monday, September 11, 2023, at the remarkable age of 104. Williams was a towering figure in Nigeria's financial sector and played a pivotal role in shaping the accounting profession in the country.
Born on August 9, 1919, Williams ventured to the University of London, where he studied accounting and later became a qualified chartered accountant in 1947. Determined to make a difference in his home country, he returned to Nigeria and founded his accounting firm, Akintola Williams & Co., in 1952. Today, this firm is known globally as Deloitte & Touche, one of the world's leading accounting firms.
Williams was not just a practitioner; he was also a dedicated advocate for the accounting profession in Nigeria. He played a pivotal role in the establishment of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), serving as its president from 1963 to 1965. Furthermore, he was a member of the National Board of Accountants and Auditors.
His leadership and influence were instrumental in setting accounting standards and practices in Nigeria, providing a solid foundation for future generations of accountants in the country to build upon. Williams' contributions to the professionalization of accounting in Nigeria are immeasurable and have left an indelible mark on the nation's financial landscape.
Throughout his lifetime, Williams received numerous awards and honors, reflecting the significance of his contributions to Nigeria's financial sector and beyond. He was awarded the Order of the Federal Republic (OFR) and the Nigerian National Order of Merit (NNOM). Internationally, he was recognized as a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales.
Akintola Williams' passing marks the end of an era but serves as a profound reminder of the lasting impact one individual can have on a nation's development. His legacy extends far beyond accounting ledgers and financial statements. His commitment to advancing the accounting profession and his contributions to Nigeria's financial well-being will be remembered for generations to come.
In his personal life, Williams is survived by his children, grandchildren, and numerous relatives and well-wishers. Funeral arrangements are yet to be announced, but Nigerians from all walks of life will come together to celebrate the remarkable life and achievements of this iconic figure.
Source of content: OOO News 2023-09-12 News
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