Nigeria’s accounting community mourns the loss of a pioneering figure as Pa Akintola Williams, the country’s first indigenous chartered accountant, passed away at the age of 104.
He peacefully departed in his sleep on Monday, September 11, 2023.
Born in 1919, Akintola Williams was a trailblazer in Nigeria’s financial sector, making significant contributions to the nation’s accounting profession. His journey began with studies in accounting at the University of London, where he achieved chartered accountant status in 1947.
Upon returning to Nigeria, he established Akintola Williams & Co., a renowned accounting firm now known as Deloitte & Touche, in 1952. His visionary leadership and dedication laid the foundation for the growth of the accounting profession in Nigeria.
Notably, Akintola Williams was a founding member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) and served as its president from 1963 to 1965. He also contributed his expertise as a member of the National Board of Accountants and Auditors.
Throughout his illustrious career, Pa Williams received numerous accolades, including the Order of the Federal Republic (OFR) and the Nigerian National Order of Merit (NNOM).
He was recognized as a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales.