Nigeria’s youngest chartered accountant, Osasere Okundaye, has shared the story behind her remarkable academic achievement, revealing that she began pursuing professional accounting qualifications through the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) at the age of 13 after completing secondary school ahead of schedule.
The 16-year-old recounted her journey during the Power Must Change Hands monthly programme held at the Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries (MFM) headquarters in Magboro, Ogun State.
Okundaye’s accomplishment was officially recognised last Monday when the Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, announced that she had become Nigeria’s youngest chartered accountant. In a statement celebrating the milestone, the minister described her success as an example of dedication and perseverance.
“This remarkable milestone is a testament to the power of hard work, discipline, resilience and an unwavering commitment to excellence,” the minister said.
Speaking before the congregation, Okundaye explained that her parents encouraged her to pursue ICAN’s Accounting Technicians Scheme (ATS) immediately after she completed secondary school instead of waiting to become eligible for university admission. She said the decision allowed her to begin building a professional career at an unusually young age.
“I am 16 years old. I started this ICAN journey three years ago after finishing my secondary school early. “My parents encouraged me to start writing the ICAN examinations through ATS instead of just waiting around until I got to the right age for university.”
Okundaye revealed that one of the biggest hurdles she faced was adapting to accounting despite not studying the subject during her secondary school education. According to her, the first stage of the professional examinations proved particularly demanding.
“I wasn’t an accounting student in secondary school, so the exams, especially at the first level proved very difficult, more difficult than they probably were for other people at the same level.
“But I had to put in extra effort, and with the grace of God, I was able to pass that first level. Ever since then, it has been a success.” She said determination and consistent hard work helped her overcome the initial difficulties.
Despite her impressive progress, the youngest chartered accountant disclosed that her journey was not without disappointment. She revealed that she failed one of her final professional examination papers last year, forcing her to rewrite it in May 2026. Rather than abandoning her goal, she prepared again and successfully passed the examination.
“Last year, I failed one of my final papers, unfortunately, which I had to rewrite earlier this year in May.
“To the glory of God, I passed that examination, and now I can say that I am a qualified accountant of the institute at 16 years old.”
Okundaye’s achievement adds to the growing number of young Nigerians making significant strides in professional education. Her success comes a year after Temilola Blossom Arise, an 18-year-old student of the University of Ilorin (UNILORIN), successfully completed the professional stage examination of ICAN. Okundaye’s story highlights how early preparation, family support and resilience can open opportunities for young people seeking professional qualifications, even before entering university.
