16-Year-Old Osasere Okundaye Becomes Nigeria’s Youngest Chartered Accountant.
Western Nigeria has a new record holder. Young Osasere Okundaye becomes Nigeria’s youngest chartered accountant at the age of 16 after successfully writing and passing the Professional examination of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN).
It surpassed last year’s record of Temilola Blossom Arise, 18, from University of Ilorin, but Okundaye set it at 16.
Minister Hails “Limitless Potential”
The Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, congratulated Okundaye on Monday. He called her win proof of what Nigerian youths can do with focus.
“We see this success as evidence of the tremendous power of hard work, discipline, endurance, and commitment to a high standard,” Olawande said.
He also praised her parents, teachers, and mentors. Their “sacrifices and belief” helped her succeed, he added.
Edo-Born Teen Heading to OAU
Okundaye who is from Edo State that made up the former Western Region has applied for direct entry to study Accounting in Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife.
That means Osun State could soon host Nigeria’s youngest chartered accountant as an undergraduate. For Western Nigeria, it’s another win for education.
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Why This Record Matters for Southwest Youth
ICAN exams are tough. Most people pass in their mid-20s after university. Passing at 16 means Okundaye started early and stayed disciplined.
Dr. Adewale Ogunleye, an ICAN fellow and lecturer at University of Lagos, explains: “To sit for ICAN professional level, you need ATS or a degree. Doing this at 16 shows exceptional planning. It’s rare globally, not just in Nigeria.”
Last year, Temilola Arise from UNILORIN made news at 18. Now Western Nigeria produces another record holder. It tells a bigger story: Southwest families and schools are pushing academic excellence early.
Olawande agrees. He said the milestone “reinforces our confidence that the future of Nigeria is bright in the hands of focused, determined, and talented young citizens.”
What’s Next for Osasere?
With ICAN done, Okundaye isn’t slowing down. Her OAU application shows she wants the full university experience too.
If admitted, she’ll be one of the few undergraduates in Nigeria who are already chartered accountants. Big firms and banks will be watching.
Here’s the Bottom Line
The title of youngest chartered accountant in Nigeria now belongs to a 16-year-old from Edo State. It’s not just a personal win. It’s a message to every teenager in Lagos, Ibadan, Akure, and Benin: start early, stay focused, and you can break ceilings.
Western Nigeria keeps producing firsts. And Osasere Okundaye just added her name to the list.
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