New ICAN president aims for governance changes

The 62nd President of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), Hajia Queensley Sofuratu Seghosime, shared her nine-point plan focused on digital change, professional growth, ethics, sustainability, and greater involvement in national development. At her investiture ceremony at the ICAN Secretariat in Lagos on Tuesday, Seghosime said her leadership would follow the nine pillars of "WE ARE ICAN," which aims to reshape the institute and the accounting field for the future. "ICAN must not merely respond to change. ICAN must lead change," she said.

Seghosime highlighted that the institute would enhance its role in promoting accountability and transparency in Nigeria’s public and private sectors. "We will continue strategic public-interest leadership. Through research, advocacy and thought leadership, we will advance accountability, champion transparency, fiscal responsibility, sound governance and national development," she stated. She noted that ICAN would improve its input in public policy and strengthen its Accountability Index to support governance reforms.

A key part of her agenda is digital transformation and preparing members for new technologies. "We will reinvent the profession through digital transformation. Artificial intelligence, data analytics and emerging technologies are reshaping the world," Seghosime said. "We shall equip our members and ensure our systems remain at the forefront of innovation and global influence." The new president also promised to increase ICAN’s international connections through stronger partnerships with professional bodies, regulators, academic institutions, and development organisations.

"We will expand strategic partnerships. We shall deepen engagement with international professional bodies, development institutions, regulators, universities and strategic partners to shape global conversations about the future of the profession and ensure that the voice of ICAN continues to be heard," she said.

Regarding professional development, Seghosime mentioned that the institute would upgrade learning systems and aim to create an executive business school. She also promised to increase access to the profession for students, women, and disadvantaged groups, while enhancing ICAN’s presence across Africa.

Seghosime further committed to promoting sustainability and responsible business practices among members. "We will champion sustainability and value creation. We shall promote ESG reporting, integrated reporting, sustainable finance and responsible business practices. Our members must become leaders in creating long-term value for organisations and society."

On member welfare, she stated that ICAN membership should remain both prestigious and rewarding. She pointed out that ethics and integrity are the bedrock of the profession and promised stricter compliance and ongoing ethics education.