In a solemn moment, the renowned pioneer of the accounting profession, Pa Akintola Williams, has passed away at the remarkable age of 104. He celebrated his 104th birthday on August 9, marking a life defined by exceptional achievements.
Pa Williams earned distinction as the first Sub-Saharan African to attain the prestigious title of chartered accountant, a feat he accomplished by passing the rigorous examination of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of England and Wales (ICAEW) in 1949.
His influence extended far beyond his personal accolades, as he played a pivotal role in shaping the accountancy profession in Nigeria. He facilitated the formation of the Association of Accountants in Nigeria, which later evolved into the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN). He was a founding member of ICAN and contributed significantly to establishing the Nigerian Stock Exchange, now known as the Nigerian Exchange Group.
Pa Akintola Williams was not just a distinguished accountant but also a seasoned administrator, management consultant, and serial entrepreneur during his active career.
Born on August 9, 1919, into the family of Thomas Ekundayo Williams, he demonstrated his academic brilliance early on. He received his primary education at Olowogbowo Methodist Primary School in Lagos and continued to CMS Grammar School for his secondary education. His exceptional academic performance earned him a UAC scholarship to Yaba Higher College, where he obtained a diploma in commerce. He then pursued further studies in banking and finance at the University of London, graduating with a bachelor of commerce degree in 1946.
In a remarkable testament to his dedication, he qualified as a chartered accountant in England in 1949, becoming the first African to achieve this distinction at the age of 30.
Returning to Nigeria in 1950, Pa Williams served as an assessment officer with the Inland Revenue until March 1952, when he took a bold step to establish Akintola Williams & Co., the first indigenous chartered accounting firm in Africa. The firm flourished, expanding its reach to other African countries and affiliating with partners in Ghana, Egypt, Kenya, and more.
His legacy extended even further when Akintola Williams & Co. merged with two other accounting firms to form Akintola Williams Deloitte (now Deloitte & Touche), the largest professional services firm in Nigeria.
Pa Williams officially retired in 1983 at the age of 64 but remained dedicated to serving humanity. He actively supported the development of indigenous chartered accountancy firms and played a significant role in establishing the Association of Accountants in Nigeria and the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN).
He also contributed to the creation of the Nigerian Stock Exchange and held advisory roles within the market. His influence extended to various institutions and initiatives, making him a true pioneer and leader in Nigeria.
Pa Akintola Williams received numerous awards and honors for his tireless efforts in advancing accountancy and contributing to Nigeria’s economic growth. The Nigerian government honored him with the Order of the Federal Republic (OFR) in 1982 and Commander of the Federal Republic (CFR) in 2001. In 2011, the Nigeria-Britain Association recognized his contributions to democracy and development.
In April 1997, he was appointed Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire for his services to the accountancy profession and his promotion of arts, culture, and music through the Musical Society of Nigeria.
Pa Akintola Williams was a man of many achievements, a true legend in his field, and a beacon of excellence for Nigeria and Africa. His passing marks the end of an era, but his legacy will continue to inspire generations to come. Rest in peace, Legend.
