Pa Akintola Williams, a revered figure in the world of accounting, has passed away at the age of 104 years old.
Pa Williams, who celebrated his 104th birthday on August 9, was a trailblazer, earning the distinction of becoming Sub-Saharan Africa’s first chartered accountant when he successfully passed the rigorous examination of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of England and Wales (ICAEW) back in 1949.
His enduring legacy is deeply entwined with the growth of the accounting profession in Nigeria, where he played a pivotal role in founding the Association of Accountants in Nigeria, which later evolved into the esteemed Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN).
Furthermore, he was instrumental in the establishment of the Nigerian Stock Exchange, now known as the Nigerian Exchange Group.
In addition to his contributions to the financial sector, Pa Williams was a distinguished administrator, renowned accountant, accomplished management consultant, and a serial entrepreneur during his active years.
After receiving his early education in Nigeria, he earned a Bachelor of Commerce Degree with a focus on Banking and Finance from the University of London in 1946. Subsequently, he qualified as a Chartered Accountant in England.
Pa Williams served as an assessment officer with the Inland Revenue from 1950 to 1952 before leaving the civil service to found Akintola Williams & Co., which stands as Africa’s first indigenous firm of chartered accountants, now recognized as Deloitte & Touche Nigeria.
His impact on the world of accounting and business development will be remembered for generations to come.