The Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) has ushered in a new era of leadership with the formal inauguration of Haruna Yahaya as its 61st president.

The investiture ceremony took place on Tuesday, June 3, 2025, at the institute’s head office in Lagos.

Yahaya’s inauguration marks a significant milestone in the institute’s continuous drive toward excellence, professional growth, and national development.

He succeeds Davidson Alaribe, who served as the 60th president and leaves behind a legacy of expansion and engagement within the accounting profession.

In his valedictory address, Alaribe reflected on several achievements recorded during his tenure.

Most notably, he emphasized ICAN’s strategic expansion across Nigeria through the establishment of 26 District Societies.

Out of these, 24 have already been formally inaugurated, reinforcing the institute’s commitment to decentralization and member accessibility.

The ceremony drew the participation of numerous distinguished guests from across government and the financial sector.

Among them was the Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who was represented by the Accountant-General of the state, Dr. Abiodun Muritala.

Their presence highlighted the ongoing collaboration between ICAN and key public sector stakeholders.

Also present at the event were the Deputy Governor of Jigawa State, Aminu Usman, and the Attorney General of the state, Abdulqadir Fanini, both of whom came in support of the new leadership.

In addition, Dr. Rabiu Olowo, the Executive Secretary of the Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria, attended the ceremony, underscoring the importance of regulatory synergy in Nigeria’s financial ecosystem.

The occasion was further graced by the President of the Association of National Accountants of Nigeria, Zuwaira Kishimi, as well as the President of the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria, Professor Pius Olanrewaju.

Their attendance reflected the broader community’s recognition of ICAN’s pivotal role in upholding integrity, professionalism, and ethical standards within the financial and economic landscape of the country.

As Haruna Yahaya steps into his new role, expectations are high for him to build on the strong foundation laid by his predecessors and lead ICAN into its next phase of growth, impact, and innovation.