16-year-old breaks national record, becomes youngest Chartered Accountant in Nigeria

Osasere Okundaye has made history by becoming the youngest person in Nigeria to qualify as a chartered accountant through the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) at just 16 years old.

The Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, congratulated her on Monday, describing the achievement as a strong reflection of the rewards of determination, discipline and hard work.

According to the minister, Okundaye is “a shining example of the limitless potential of Nigerian youth.” He added that her success should encourage other young Nigerians to dream big, stay committed to their ambitions, and pursue their goals with confidence.

The minister also credited the people behind the scenes her parents, teachers, and mentors, saying their belief in her and the sacrifices they made were central to her success.

He used the moment to reaffirm his ministry’s commitment to building pathways that help young Nigerians grow their talents and reach their full potential.

Okundaye’s qualification breaks a record set in 2022 by Jonathan Adewale, who was 17 when he became the then-youngest chartered accountant in the country.