An 18-year-old student from the University of Ilorin (UNILORIN), Miss Faith Aduragbemi Olabisi, has achieved a remarkable milestone by becoming a chartered accountant while still an undergraduate. Miss Olabisi, a student in the Department of Accounting, passed the November 2024 professional examinations of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), a feat that has drawn widespread acclaim.
The university, in its official bulletin, UNILORIN Bulletin, described Miss Olabisi’s achievement as an exemplary display of excellence that reflects the high standard of education at UNILORIN. The Vice Chancellor, Professor Wahab Olasupo Egbewole, SAN, expressed immense pride in her accomplishment, emphasizing that it reinforces the institution’s reputation for producing exceptional talent.
Speaking about her success, Miss Olabisi attributed her achievement to perseverance, support from her lecturers, and encouragement from her mother.
The teenager’s determination and work ethic have set her apart as an inspiration to other students.
The acting Head of the Department of Accounting, Dr. Segun Abogun, hailed Miss Olabisi’s accomplishment as extraordinary. He revealed that several students in the department had successfully passed the ICAN exams last year, but Miss Olabisi’s age and dedication made her achievement stand out.
“Miss Olabisi’s success is a testament to the quality of education we provide at UNILORIN and the commitment of our students. Her outstanding achievement should encourage others to aspire to similar heights,” Dr. Abogun remarked.
He further urged Miss Olabisi and her peers to continue serving as role models, highlighting the department’s goal of nurturing more chartered accountants even before graduation.
In a statement issued by the Director of Corporate Affairs, Mr. Kunle Akogun, Professor Egbewole commended Miss Olabisi for her groundbreaking success, noting that her achievement mirrors the ethos of excellence that UNILORIN strives to uphold.
As Secretary-General of the Association of West African Universities (AWAU), Professor Egbewole underscored how accomplishments like Miss Olabisi’s elevate the university’s status on both national and regional levels.
The University of Ilorin is widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s top academic institutions, with a reputation for fostering an environment conducive to academic and professional growth. Over the years, it has become the most sought-after university in the country, consistently attracting the best students.
This latest achievement adds to a growing list of accolades for UNILORIN, further solidifying its status as a hub for intellectual and professional excellence.
Miss Olabisi’s story has resonated with students and parents across Nigeria, serving as a reminder of what can be achieved through hard work, focus, and the right support system. Her journey from being an undergraduate to joining the elite ranks of ICAN-certified professionals before her 20th birthday is a powerful narrative of youthful potential.
The Vice Chancellor encouraged other students to emulate her determination.
The young accountant’s triumph has drawn attention to the need for more investment in education, mentorship, and infrastructure to help students achieve their goals. Stakeholders in the education sector have called on policymakers to provide better support for young talents to thrive.
