By Abdul-Kadir Abdullah
Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, on Tuesday received the incoming President of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), describing her emergence as a source of pride to the state and a testament to the quality of professionals it continues to produce.
The governor, who hosted the ICAN delegation led by its President and Chairman of Council, Haruna N. Yahya, at Government House, congratulated the incoming president and assured her of the full support of the Edo State Government.
Okpebholo said Edo’s consistent top ranking on ICAN’s accountability index reflects his administration’s commitment to transparency and prudent financial management, stressing that the presence of seasoned professionals in governance has strengthened financial discipline in the state.
Welcoming the delegation, the governor expressed delight at hosting the institute, noting his long-standing interest in the accounting profession and its close alignment with his background in ICT.
He said, "I am very happy to receive you, especially our daughter who is about to lead the institute. We are proud of her and will support her,”
He reiterated his administration’s commitment to engaging qualified professionals, particularly chartered accountants, in managing the state’s finances, noting that integrity and competence remain key considerations in appointments.
“I believe in keeping people with proven integrity. Your profession does not allow room for misconduct, and that is critical in governance,” he added, hinting at plans to employ more accountants to further strengthen the system.
Earlier, Yahya said the visit was to formally present the incoming president to the governor and seek his support ahead of her investiture scheduled for June 2.
He commended the Edo State Government for its prudent management of resources, noting that the state has consistently ranked top on ICAN’s accountability index over the past five years.
He said, “Your Excellency, we are proud to present to you your daughter, who will soon be leading the institute. Your support will further strengthen her leadership and the institute,”
Yahya also invited the governor to the investiture ceremony as a special guest, as well as ICAN’s annual accountants’ conference where he is expected to speak. He urged the state government to employ more chartered accountants, stressing their critical role in ensuring accountability and transparency in public finance.
Top government officials present at the engagements included Deputy Governor, RT Hon Dennis Idahosa; Secretary to the State Government, Umar Musa Ikhilor, Esq; and Chief of Staff, Hon. Yakubu Musa, among others.
