The Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria has recognised the contributions of six Nigerians to key sectors of the economy.

They are the Accountant-General of the Federation, Mr. Jonah Otunla; Auditor-General for the Federation, Mr. Samuel Ukura; and Managing Director, Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation, Alhaji Umaru Ibrahim.

Others are the Chairman, Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund, Mrs. Ngozi Oloejeme; immediate Accountant-General of Kwara State, Mr. Tunde Abdulkareem; and a former Deputy Governor of Kogi State, Dr. Phillip Salawu.

Speaking at a merit award ceremony organised for them, the Chairman of ICAN, Abuja District Society, Mr. Shehu Aladire, said the awardees were selected for their individual achievements and exemplary leadership qualities.

He said, “This year award goes to chief executive officers of organisations and worthy individuals who have shown exceptional character and managerial prowess at ensuring successes and growth in the various spheres of the Nigerian economy.

“The selection process took into consideration a lot of factors such as individual achievements and exemplary qualities.”

Also speaking at the event, Ibrahim said the award was a recognition of NDIC’s contribution to stability of the Nigerian banking system.

He said, “It’s also a recognition of the fact that we have always encouraged professionalism at NDIC.

“We have a pool of close to 100 professional accountants at the NDIC. I think the ICAN district Abuja found it fit to honour myself and the NDIC in recognition of our efforts to professionalise deposit insurance in Nigeria.”

Otunla said the award would further encourage him to work towards the growth of the nation’s economy.

Source: Punch (by Ifeanyi Onuba)