Pa Akintola Williams, an accounting legend, dies at 104

He reportedly became a chartered accountant for the first time in Sub-Saharan Africa on August 9, his 104th birthday.

Pa Akintola Williams, the dean of the accounting field, passed away at the age of 104.

According to Channels Television, the leading accountant turned 104 on August 9.

After passing the qualifying exam for the Institute of Chartered Accountants of England and Wales (ICAEW) in 1949, Pa Williams is said to be the first Sub-Saharan African to become a chartered accountant.

The founding of the Association of Accountants in Nigeria, which later evolved into the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), was made possible by the icon, who was instrumental in the development of the accountancy profession in the nation.

He later joined ICAN as a founding member and contributed to the creation of the Nigerian Stock Exchange, which is now known as the Nigerian Exchange Group.

Williams, a seasoned administrator, excelled as a management consultant, excellent accountant, and serial entrepreneur during his active working years.

Prior to becoming a Chartered Accountant in England, Williams completed his undergraduate studies in 1946 at the University of London, where he majored in banking and finance after receiving his early education in Nigeria.

From 1950 to 1952, he served as an assessment officer for the Inland Revenue. After leaving the public service, he established Akintola Williams & Co., the first African-owned business of chartered accountants (now known as Deloitte & Touche Nigeria).