16-year-old girl becomes Nigeria’s youngest chartered accountant

Osasere Okundaye
The Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, has congratulated Osasere Okundaye on becoming Nigeria’s youngest chartered accountant at the age of 16.

In a statement on Monday, Olawande described the achievement as a remarkable demonstration of hard work, discipline, resilience and commitment to excellence.

“I heartily congratulate Miss Osasere Okundaye on her outstanding achievement of becoming Nigeria’s youngest Chartered Accountant at just 16 years of age,” he said. “This remarkable milestone is a testament to the power of hard work, discipline, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.”

He said Okundaye had distinguished herself as a shining example of the potential of Nigerian youths, adding that her success should inspire others to pursue excellence and break barriers.

“Osasere has distinguished herself as a shining example of the limitless potential of Nigerian youth. Her accomplishment reminds us that with determination, dedication, and the right support, young Nigerians can break barriers, set new records, and inspire a generation to dream bigger and strive for excellence,” he said.

The minister also commended her parents, teachers, mentors and family members for their support throughout her journey.

“I also congratulate her parents, family, teachers, mentors, and everyone who has supported and guided her journey. Their encouragement, sacrifices, and belief in her abilities have undoubtedly contributed to this exceptional success,” he added.

Olawande reaffirmed the Federal Ministry of Youth Development’s commitment to empowering young Nigerians through policies and programmes aimed at helping them realise their potential.

He said Okundaye’s achievement reinforces confidence in the future of Nigeria, describing young people as capable, focused and talented.

“Osasere’s achievement reinforces our confidence that the future of Nigeria is bright in the hands of focused, determined, and talented young citizens,” he said.

He wished her greater success in the years ahead and expressed hope that her story would inspire millions of young Nigerians.

Okundaye earned the milestone after qualifying as a chartered accountant through the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), becoming the youngest person in the country to attain the professional certification.

Her feat surpasses the previous record set in 2022 by Jonathan Adewale, who became Nigeria’s youngest chartered accountant at 17 after completing the ICAN professional examinations.

The qualification, typically obtained by graduates and working professionals after years of study and examinations, is widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s most rigorous professional certifications.