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Pa Akintola Williams, born on August 9, 1919, in Lagos, Nigeria, is a name that resonates with excellence, leadership, and pioneering achievements in the fields of finance and accountancy.
Akintola Williams who died today at the age of 104 years, hailed from the illustrious Williams family of Lagos, known for its commitment to education and community service.
His father, Thomas Ekundayo Williams, a colonial service clerk who later became a lawyer, instilled in him the values of diligence and education.
Pa Akintola Williams embarked on his educational journey at CMS Grammar School in Lagos, an institution renowned for nurturing future leaders.
His insatiable thirst for knowledge led him to Yaba Higher College, where he further honed his intellectual capabilities.
His life journey, spanning over a century, was marked by remarkable milestones and enduring contributions that have significantly shaped Nigeria’s financial landscape and the global accountancy profession.
Driven by a passion for accountancy, Pa Akintola Williams In 1944 set sail for the United Kingdom where he pursued formal education in the field he would later revolutionize.
He enrolled in the University of London’s External Programme and commenced his studies at the prestigious London School of Economics, laying the foundation for his future career as a chartered accountant.
Upon his return to Nigeria in 1952, Pa Akintola Williams achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first Nigerian to qualify as a chartered accountant.
His professional journey was marked by unwavering integrity, meticulous attention to detail, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. These qualities quickly garnered him respect and recognition in the financial sector.
Founding Nigeria’s First Indigenous Accounting Firm
In 1952, Akintola Williams partnered with Mr. S.E. Ladega to establish Nigeria’s first indigenous accounting firm, Akintola Williams & Co.
This marked a significant turning point in Nigeria’s history, symbolizing the birth of a homegrown accounting profession that had previously been dominated by foreign firms.
Pa Akintola Williams’ pioneering spirit led to numerous groundbreaking achievements in the world of finance and business.
He played a pivotal role in the establishment of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) in 1965, laying the foundation for regulating the accounting profession in Nigeria.
Throughout his illustrious career, Akintola Williams held leadership positions in several prominent companies, significantly contributing to Nigeria’s economic growth and development.
He served as Chairman and Director of organizations such as the Nigerian Industrial Development Bank (NIDB), Nigerian Breweries Plc, and the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC).
Global Recognition and Impact
Pa Akintola Williams’ influence transcended national borders, earning him international recognition for his contributions to the accountancy profession and the business world.
His appointment as the President of the Pan African Federation of Accountants (PAFA) further strengthened his global leadership and vision.
Pa Akintola Williams’ lifetime of achievements has been acknowledged with numerous prestigious awards, including the Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) for his contributions to the accounting industry and support for the Musical Society of Nigeria in promoting music, art, and culture in April 1997.
He also received the Order of the Federal Republic (OFR) award from the Nigerian government in 1982 and the Nigerian National Order of Merit (NNOM).
His impact on Nigeria’s accounting profession is perpetually commemorated through the Akintola Williams Foundation, which promotes educational and humanitarian causes.
Legacy and Philanthropy
Throughout his career, Pa Akintola Williams was deeply committed to public service.
He played key roles in various government commissions and committees, contributing his expertise to nation-building efforts.
His service included positions such as Chairman of the Federal Income Tax Appeal Commissioners, Member of the Coker Commission of Inquiry into the Statutory Corporations of the former Western Region of Nigeria, and Chairman of the Lagos State Government Revenue Collection Panel.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Pa Akintola Williams consistently demonstrated a commitment to philanthropy and community development.
He actively engaged in initiatives aimed at empowering young accountants, promoting education, and supporting underprivileged communities.