Techrectory
In a somber moment for Nigeria, the nation has bid farewell to a true icon. Akintola Williams, who holds the distinction of being Nigeria’s first indigenous accountant, has peacefully passed away at the remarkable age of 104.
The beloved figure breathed his last within the comfort of his Lagos residence during the early hours of Monday. Mr. Williams, born in 1919, made history as a pioneer in the field of accounting within the nation.
His journey began across the seas in London, where he pursued his studies in accounting, ultimately achieving the status of a chartered accountant in 1947. Upon returning to his homeland, he etched his legacy by establishing Akintola Williams & Co. in 1952, a firm that later evolved into Deloitte & Touche.
Akintola Williams was not just an accountant but a fervent advocate for the advancement of the accounting profession in Nigeria. He co-founded the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) and held the presidency from 1963 to 1965. Additionally, he played a pivotal role as a member of the National Board of Accountants and Auditors.
In recognition of his monumental contributions, Mr. Williams received an array of prestigious awards and honors, including the Order of the Federal Republic (OFR) and the Nigerian National Order of Merit (NNOM). His global impact was further exemplified by his status as a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales.
Akintola Williams’ enduring legacy as a pioneer, visionary, and advocate for Nigeria’s financial growth shall serve as an eternal source of inspiration for accountants and financial professionals across the nation.
The nation joins in collective mourning as we prepare to bid our final farewell to a giant in the world of finance and accounting. Funeral arrangements will be shared with the public in the coming days, as Nigeria pays its respects to a true luminary.
Stay tuned for further updates on this momentous occasion, as we commemorate the life and achievements of Akintola Williams.
– Techrectory News
