Dr Titilayo Fowokan has been sworn in as the first female chairman of the Ilupeju/Gbagada District Society of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), marking a historic moment for the district and the wider ICAN community. The inauguration ceremony, which took place recently, also saw the official handover by the immediate past chairman, Dr Samuel Abey, and the induction of the new Executive Committee members.
According to a statement issued on Tuesday, Dr Fowokan is the fifth person to chair the Ilupeju/Gbagada District. Her emergence as the first woman to hold this position is seen as a breakthrough for gender representation and leadership within Nigeria’s accounting profession.
During the event, Dr Samuel Abey, who led the district during the 2024/2025 term, gave an account of his administration’s achievements. Among them was the successful creation of three new district societies under his leadership, all of which received full approval from the ICAN Council. He also noted that over twenty aspiring accountants were fully sponsored for the ICAN Professional Examination during his tenure, with seven eventually qualifying as Chartered Accountants.
The district society described Dr Fowokan’s investiture as a landmark development, noting that her leadership reflects the growing acknowledgement of diversity and excellence within the accounting field. The statement read, “Dr Titilayo Fowokan’s investiture marks a significant milestone not only in the history of the Ilupeju/Gbagada District but also in the wider ICAN community. It reflects the growing recognition of excellence, diversity, and capable leadership within the profession.”
The district commended her record of professional discipline, ethical leadership, and service to the accounting community, expressing strong confidence that her administration would usher in a new phase of growth and member engagement.
“We are confident that under Dr Titilayo Fowokan’s leadership, the District Society will experience notable advancement. Her tenure promises to be one of innovation, inclusive growth, and strengthened member engagement. With her vision and passion, we are assured of progressive contributions to the Institute’s agenda within our jurisdiction and beyond,” the district added.
The investiture ceremony was chaired by the 61st President of ICAN, Haruna Yahaya, who was represented by past ICAN President Ezekiel Anagha. Also present were the President of the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN), Comfort Eyitayo; immediate past CITN President, Innocent Ohagwa; and Mr Samuel Agbeluyi, among other dignitaries from the financial and professional services sector.
Dr Fowokan’s career is widely acknowledged as one marked by distinction. Her commitment to the principles of the accounting profession and her strong leadership qualities have earned her respect among peers and institutions alike. Her election as chairman is expected to inspire more women and young professionals to take up leadership roles within ICAN and related bodies.
Observers at the event noted that her appointment comes at a time when professional bodies in Nigeria are increasingly advocating for inclusive leadership and promoting gender equity across all levels of governance. ICAN, being one of the country’s oldest and most respected professional bodies, is seen as setting the tone for such transitions.
The Ilupeju/Gbagada District Society, one of the numerous district societies under ICAN, plays a crucial role in training, mentoring, and supporting accountants in the Lagos axis. The new executive, under Dr Fowokan’s leadership, is expected to focus on enhancing professional development, ethical standards, and opportunities for younger members.
As Dr Fowokan assumes the mantle of leadership, many in the accounting profession are watching with optimism, hoping her tenure will open up new paths for innovation, greater inclusion, and sustained growth in the district and beyond.
