Nigeria’s youngest chartered accountant, Osasere Okundaye, has shared the inspiring story of how she began her journey with the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) at just 13 years old.
The 16-year-old said determination, hard work and support from her parents helped her achieve the milestone despite facing challenges along the way.
Parents Encouraged Her Early Start
Okundaye said she completed secondary school at an early age and decided to begin the ICAN Accounting Technicians Scheme (ATS) instead of waiting for university admission.
She explained that her parents encouraged the decision, believing it would give her a head start in her career.
“I started this ICAN journey three years ago after finishing secondary school early. My parents encouraged me to start taking the ICAN examinations through ATS instead of just waiting until I reached the right age for university.”
No Accounting Background
Despite her achievement, Okundaye revealed that she did not study Accounting in secondary school.
She admitted that the first stage of the programme was difficult because she lacked the academic background of many other candidates.
“I wasn’t an accounting student in secondary school, so the examinations, especially at the first level, proved more difficult for me than for other people.”
However, she said she remained focused and eventually passed the examinations.
Failure Did Not Stop Her
Okundaye also spoke about one of the biggest setbacks in her journey.
She disclosed that she failed one of her final ICAN papers last year.
Instead of giving up, she rewrote the paper in May 2026 and passed.
“Last year, I failed one of my final papers. I rewrote it earlier this year, and by the grace of God, I passed. Today, I am a qualified chartered accountant at 16.”
Achievement Draws National Praise
Her achievement has attracted widespread praise from education stakeholders and public officials.
The Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, described her accomplishment as a reflection of discipline, resilience and excellence.
The founder of the Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries, Daniel Olukoya, also congratulated the teenager and prayed for greater achievements in her future.
An Inspiration to Young Nigerians
Okundaye’s success comes at a time when many young Nigerians are exploring professional qualifications alongside formal education.
Her story highlights the opportunities available through early planning, perseverance and continuous learning.
She now holds the record as Nigeria’s youngest chartered accountant after qualifying through ICAN at the age of 16.
