ICAN New President Pledges Tech Reforms and Youth Empowerment

The newly elected president of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), Dr. Haruna Yahaya, has unveiled a bold and future-focused agenda aimed at transforming the accounting profession in Nigeria through digital innovation, youth inclusion, and global competitiveness.

His plan, introduced during his inauguration as the 61st president of the institute, is centered on building a more modern, responsive, and globally aligned ICAN.

In his address, Dr. Yahaya emphasized that the accounting profession must adapt quickly to the realities of the digital age if it is to remain relevant and effective. At the heart of his strategy is a commitment to technological reforms that will overhaul how ICAN operates, how its members are trained, and how the profession is perceived both within Nigeria and internationally.

One of the key aspects of his plan is the full digitization of ICAN’s examination processes. Beginning with the November 2025 diet, candidates will be able to take their professional exams entirely online through a newly developed platform. This move is expected to reduce logistical bottlenecks, improve accessibility for candidates in remote locations, and enhance the credibility of the examination process through tighter security and real-time monitoring. According to Dr. Yahaya, the digital examination rollout is part of a broader shift toward creating a “Digital Institute” where members can interact, collaborate, and access services regardless of their physical location.

In addition to reforming examinations, the new ICAN leadership plans to update the institute’s Continuing Professional Development (CPD) programs. Dr. Yahaya noted that many accounting professionals need to be retrained to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving global economy. Under his administration, CPD modules will include topics such as data analytics, blockchain, cybersecurity, sustainability, and artificial intelligence—ensuring that members are not only prepared for today’s challenges but are also equipped for future opportunities.

Dr. Yahaya is also placing strong emphasis on youth inclusion. Recognizing that younger Nigerians are a key part of the country’s economic future, he intends to make ICAN more attractive and accessible to the next generation of professionals. Initiatives will include youth-led forums at ICAN conferences, leadership training programs tailored for younger members, and mentorship schemes that link aspiring accountants with experienced professionals. There are also plans to revamp the institute’s communication strategies by using digital platforms that resonate more with Gen Z and millennial audiences.

In furthering his goal of expanding ICAN’s global relevance, Dr. Yahaya has promised to align the institute’s certification standards with those of leading international accounting bodies. This alignment will not only make Nigerian accountants more competitive globally but also facilitate cross-border recognition of ICAN qualifications. To achieve this, ICAN will pursue strategic partnerships with global institutions, engage in knowledge exchanges, and ensure that its curriculum and practices meet international benchmarks.

Employment and industry relevance also feature prominently in the president’s agenda. He acknowledged that a widening gap exists between academic qualifications and the practical skills demanded by employers. To close this gap, ICAN under his leadership will work closely with industries and government agencies to create job placement opportunities, internships, and tailored training programs for members. Dr. Yahaya said these efforts would help ensure that Nigerian accountants are not only book-smart but also job-ready.

The president also highlighted the role of ICAN in promoting transparency, accountability, and good governance in both the public and private sectors. He pledged to support anti-corruption efforts by strengthening the institute’s engagement with regulatory and law enforcement agencies. This will include offering technical support, deploying forensic accounting tools, and helping to develop frameworks that enhance financial oversight. Dr. Yahaya believes that by positioning accountants as watchdogs and advocates of financial integrity, ICAN can contribute meaningfully to the fight against corruption in Nigeria.

As ICAN marks its 60th anniversary, Dr. Yahaya’s leadership comes at a critical time for the institution. With global economic conditions changing rapidly, technological disruption on the rise, and the expectations of younger professionals evolving, the need for a visionary and responsive strategy has never been greater.

He concluded his address with a call for unity and active participation from all members, urging them to embrace change and contribute to the transformation of the profession. “We cannot afford to remain static in a world that is moving so fast. The future of accounting in Nigeria depends on how well we adapt, innovate, and uphold the values that have sustained ICAN for six decades,” he said.

Dr. Yahaya’s presidency promises to be a transformative chapter in ICAN’s history, one that aims to reposition the institute not only as a regulatory body but also as a driving force for national development, youth empowerment, and digital excellence.