ICAN to digitise exams, boost brand, others — Yahaya

Haruna Yahaya, the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) 61st president, has disclosed that his administration will intensify efforts to digitally transform the examination process and revive the institution’s brand, among others.

Yahaya made this known on Tuesday, June 3, 2025, during his investiture as the 61st president of ICAN.

“The world is racing forward on the wings of digital innovation, and we must not be left behind. In today’s fast-evolving landscape, digital transformation is no longer a strategic option; it is an existential imperative. Just as commerce, education, and communication have undergone sweeping digital revolutions, so too must the certification process that moulds the Chartered Accountants of tomorrow.

“During this presidential year, we are embarking on a bold and forward-looking journey to fully digitise the ICAN examination process. This transformation will be executed in carefully designed phases, beginning from the November 2025 Diet,” he said

He further explained that the transformation will encompass a robust conceptual design, comprehensive risk assessment and mitigation, stakeholder engagement, and a pilot phase, all culminating in the deployment of a secure, proctored online examination platform that aligns with global best practices.

Moreover, Yahaya emphasised that his administration will revitalise the ICAN brand by not merely being a gatekeeper of professional standards, but as a symbol of excellence, relevance, and global distinction.

“This year, we are embarking on a bold brand revitalisation journey – one that will amplify ICAN’s voice across digital platforms, within academic corridors, in corporate boardrooms, and on the international stage. Our goal is simple but profound: to ensure that ICAN is not only respected, but also recognised, remembered, and revered.

“Young professionals often challenge us by saying that ‘We know that ICAN is strong, but can the world see it?’ To address this challenge, we shall adopt a multi-pronged strategy that strengthens the institute’s identity, enhances its service culture, and inspires emotional connection with both prospective students and existing members,” he stressed.

He stressed that with the innovative approach, ICAN will refresh its messaging platforms, launch integrated marketing campaigns, and engage diaspora communities with tailored outreach.

“From academic institutions to online learning spaces, from district societies to industry partners, we will ensure that ICAN is present, prominent, and preferred,” he said.

In the 2025/26 roadmap of ICAN, Yahaya said the institute will embrace thought leadership and policy advocacy.

“We will no longer whisper from the corners of policy debates; we will speak with clarity, courage, and conviction. For in a nation seeking answers, the accounting profession must be a voice of wisdom, not a silent witness.

“This year, ICAN will assert its place as a strong and trusted voice in national and international economic policy conversations. We will enhance our capacity to shape dialogue and influence decisions that affect not only the profession, but the economy, the nation, and future generations,” he noted.

In addition, he said that ICAN will deepen its contributions to financial inclusion efforts, partner with stakeholders on financial literacy campaigns, and advocate for reforms that strengthen public trust in.

Under his leadership, ICAN’s 61st president reiterated institution will be a pillar for national regulation and anti-corruption.

“Trust is the most valuable currency in any economy, and ICAN must be its custodian. To become a strong pillar for regulators, we will leverage our technical expertise, nationwide presence, and the credibility of our membership to actively support Nigeria’s journey toward the fight against corruption, transparency, good governance, and institutional accountability.

“This year, we shall strengthen ICAN’s role as a trusted ally to regulatory bodies, not merely as a watchdog, but as a collaborative partner in raising standards across both public and private sectors,” he said.

Yahaya took over the ICAN leadership mantle from Davidson Alaribe, who was the ‘Diamond’ president of the institute.

From a humble background in Bida, Niger State, he was guided by destiny to Bayero University, Kano, where he was first admitted to study Geography in 1983, but changed to Accounting, a decision he said, he has never regretted.

The decision he took over four decades ago has led him to become the president of ICAN.