The Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) on Saturday inaugurated a new leadership team for its Sokoto and District Society, with Alhaji Ganiyu Mustapha emerging as the 6th Chairman.
Speaking during the inauguration ceremony in Sokoto, ICAN President, Malam Haruna Yahaya, represented by the Northern Zonal Chairman, Alhaji Ibrahim Alkali, urged the new executive team to remain committed to the values that qualified them for leadership.
He emphasised the need for the newly inaugurated leaders to uphold the highest standards of integrity and precision in the discharge of their duties.
Yahaya restated the institute’s commitment to embracing innovation and leveraging technology to address emerging trends in the accounting profession.
“2025 will be a year of positioning ICAN as a tech-forward, purpose-driven, and inclusive institute, adopting a digital-first approach in all engagements,” he said.
Yahaya stated that the institute aimed to establish itself as a dependable global regulatory brand, utilising technology and other strategic tools to tackle evolving challenges in the profession.
“We are also exploring alternative educational methods to ensure our members remain at the forefront of developments in the accounting profession,” he added.
Yahaya reiterated ICAN’s dedication to strengthening the profession’s global relevance, enhancing member employability, revitalising its brand, and digitising its examination process.
“These guiding principles are essential in distinguishing ICAN members as more than just professionals—they are leaders,” he emphasised.
Yahaya further encouraged the Sokoto District Society not to relent in its ongoing activities and programs.
In his remarks, the Special Guest of Honour and Sokoto State Commissioner for Commerce, Trade, and Industry, Haruna Bashir, described ICAN as a symbol of innovation, professionalism, and public service.
He highlighted the institute’s role as a gatekeeper of ethics and standards in the accounting profession and a pillar in nation-building.
“ICAN members in Sokoto are highly valued in both public and private sectors for their commitment to accountability, transparency, and prudent financial management,” Bashir stated.
He expressed the state government’s readiness to strengthen collaboration with ICAN through enterprise development, financial literacy, capacity building, and economic data management.
The commissioner said, “The future belongs to those who uphold integrity, pursue continuous learning, and serve with excellence,” he added, assuring ICAN of a robust partnership for Sokoto’s economic and professional development.”
In his valedictory address, the outgoing Chairman, Alhaji Ismaeel Sulaiman, thanked the members for their support, trust, and active participation during his tenure.
He commended the executive committee members for their dedication and the stakeholders for their cooperation.
Sulaiman expressed confidence that ICAN Sokoto and District Society would continue to thrive and grow.
In his acceptance speech, the new Chairman, expressed gratitude for the transparent process that led to his emergence and pledged to adopt an inclusive leadership approach focused on transparency, accountability, and active member participation.
Mustapha described his election as a call to collective action and a renewed commitment to professionalism, integrity, and national development.
The event had as its theme: ‘The new Era of Tax reforms in Nigeria: Implications and Responsibilities for Professional Accountants’.
