From Moshood Karim
Benin City- The Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), Benin and District Society has elected Deacon Emmanuel Dele Olatunde as its new Chairman for the 2024/2025 term.
During his investiture and inauguration ceremony on Saturday in Benin City, Deacon Olatunde pledged to prioritize an aggressive membership drive and enhance members’ welfare, aiming to elevate the district’s standing.
In his acceptance speech, Deacon Olatunde, the 32nd Chairman of the ICAN Benin and District Society, emphasized a democratic leadership style that prioritizes the needs and aspirations of members.
He assured members of a robust welfare package and outlined his vision for the district’s future.
“As someone deeply involved in the Benin ICAN and District Society, my goal is to implement a strategic plan that charts our course for the next five, ten, and fifteen years,” said Deacon Olatunde.
“We need to rebrand and reposition ourselves to fully participate in all activities, especially the annual accounting conference in Abuja. Our members must be mobilized not just to attend but to actively participate in all programmed activities.”
He highlighted the need for a significant increase in membership, noting that more members would propel the district forward. He encouraged potential members, including secondary and tertiary students, to qualify and join the society.
“We will prioritize the payment of all welfare-related entitlements to our members as they fall due. A separate bank account will be established to manage these welfare dues efficiently,” he added.
ICAN President, Chief Davidson Alaribe, represented by ICAN Benin and District Society Coordinator Mr. Jude Sunny, emphasized the importance of membership growth, particularly among young talents.
He urged members to support the new leadership and actively participate in district activities.
“I encourage our leaders to ensure all district activities are at their peak and to intensify efforts in attracting young talents through initiatives like ‘Catch-them-young’,” Mr. Sunny said.
He pointed out the global challenge of attracting and retaining young talents in the accounting profession, as fewer students are pursuing accounting degrees and more professionals are leaving the field.
Associate Professor Iro Aghedo, the special guest of honour, praised Deacon Olatunde’s leadership qualities.
He said: “I have known Deacon Olatunde for over fourteen years. He is brilliant, friendly, and highly accountable. I am confident he will lead ICAN with transparency and effectiveness,” he said.
Also speaking, past Chairman Sir Femi Ajijala, in his inaugural address titled “Secure Your Future: Mind Your Business,” highlighted the challenges facing the accounting profession, such as evolving technology and the encroachment of other professionals.
He stressed the importance of alternative income sources, skill acquisition, and investment for a secure future.
“Whatever your source of income, ensure you engage in business or investment activities,” Ajijala advised.
On his part, the Chairman Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria, Benin Chapter, Felix Ahonsi advocated tenure elongation for ICAN Benin Chairmanship position to two years. He opined that, the current one year tenure is not enough to undertake a significant impact in the affairs of the District.
“There is nothing really significant one can achieve in a space of one year.” He said.
Uptown Press reports that, with a clear vision and a strategic plan, Deacon Olatunde and his new executive team are set to lead the ICAN Benin District Society to new heights, focusing on growth, welfare, and active participation in the accounting profession.
