Tinubu mourns Doyen of Accounting, says Oloye Williams epitomized integrity

Friday Omosola Metro 12/09/2023

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed his heartfelt condolence to the family, friends, and associates of the Doyen of Accounting in Nigeria and Sub-Saharan Africa, Chief Akintola Williams, who passed away on Monday at the age of 104 years old.

Tinubu in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale said the late Oloye Williams epitomized integrity, resilience, and resourcefulness which was amply demonstrated when he established the first accounting firm, Akintola Williams & Co (Deliotte & Touche), by an African, in 1952.

He said the firm inspired self-confidence in a generation of professionals who would make a further impact in strengthening transparency and competence in the Accounting profession.

Late Chief Akintola Williams (Credit: Internet)

President Tinubu also sympathizes with the government and people of Lagos and Ogun States, the Institute of Chartered Accountants (ICAN), the Nigerian Stock Exchange, and other financial institutions that were founded by the centurion, who had lived an admirable life of charity with an impactful influence on future generations.

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The President added that he believes that the numerous honours, recognitions, and awards received by Oloye Williams during his lifetime, including the OFR and NNOM have hardly reflected his immense contributions to the growth of the nation and humanity, particularly concerning his investments in lifting the most impoverished and vulnerable of our citizens through his robust support for education and healthcare institutions.

Tinubu noted the historic role played by the first indigenous chartered accountant in the public service, having served at various times as the Chairman of the Federal Income Tax Appeal Commissioners; Member of the Coker Commission of Inquiry into the Statutory Corporations of the former Western Region of Nigeria; Member of the Board of Trustees of the Commonwealth Foundation; and as the Chairman of the Public Service Review Panel to correct the anomalies in the Udoji Salary Review Commission.

He recalled sending warm felicitations to the centenarian on his 104th birthday, on August 9th of this year, and appreciating his position in the history of Nigeria, and Africa, having scored many firsts in establishing many institutions that have shaped the African economy over his lifetime.

President Tinubu prayed God would receive the soul of Oloye Williams, and comfort his beloved family.