In the rich tapestry of Nigeria’s history, few names stand as tall and enduring as that of Akintola Williams. Born in 1919 into a distinguished lineage, he would grow to become a trailblazer, not just in the field of accounting but as a pioneer in shaping the very foundations of Nigeria’s economic and professional landscape.
AMBusiness reported that Akintola died on Monday, at the age of 104.
As we delve into the remarkable life of Akintola Williams, often referred to as the “Doyen of Accounting,” we uncover a legacy woven with excellence, resilience, and a profound dedication to his country’s growth. From his humble beginnings at Olowogbowo Methodist Primary School to founding the first indigenous chartered accounting firm in Africa, Williams embarked on a journey that would leave an indelible mark on the nation.
This listicle aims to shed light on ten pivotal facts about Akintola Williams, offering a glimpse into his extraordinary life journey, his contributions to the accounting profession, and his unwavering commitment to the development of Nigeria. Through these remarkable facts, we pay tribute to a true icon whose influence continues to resonate within and beyond Nigeria’s borders.
i. Akintola Williams began his educational journey at Olowogbowo Methodist Primary School in Lagos in the 1930s, the same school attended by his younger brother, Chief Rotimi Williams.
ii. He founded Akintola Williams & Co. in 1952, which later became the largest professional services firm in Nigeria by 2004. He was a pioneer in founding the Nigerian Stock Exchange and the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria.
iii.After attending CMS Grammar School, Lagos, he received a diploma in commerce from Yaba Higher College on a UAC scholarship. He furthered his studies at the University of London, graduating in 1946 with a Bachelor of Commerce and becoming a chartered accountant in England in 1949.
iv. While in London, Akintola Williams co-founded the Egbe Omo Oduduwa society with Dr. Oni Akerele and Chief Obafemi Awolowo.
v. Upon returning to Nigeria in 1950, he founded Akintola Williams & Co., the first indigenous chartered accounting firm in Africa. This move marked a significant shift in Nigeria’s accounting landscape.
vi. The firm grew rapidly and expanded overseas, opening branches in Cameroon, Côte d’Ivoire, Swaziland, and affiliations in Ghana, Egypt, and Kenya. By March 1992, it had 19 partners and 535 staff.
vii. The Companies Act of 1968 and the promotion of indigenous business ownership in the 1970s boosted the demand for Akintola Williams & Co.’s services. The firm also diversified into management consultancy and other services.
viii. Akintola Williams played a pivotal role in founding the Association of Accountants in Nigeria and the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria. He also contributed to the establishment of the Nigerian Stock Exchange.
ix. His public sector roles included Chairman of the Federal Income Tax Appeal Commissioners, member of various government panels, and President of the Metropolitan Club in Lagos.
x. He received numerous honors, including Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire for his contributions to the accountancy profession and his support for arts, culture, and music through the Musical Society of Nigeria. An arboretum at the Nigerian Conservation Foundation is named in his honor.
Akintola Williams was a trailblazer in the field of accounting and made significant contributions to Nigeria’s economic development and professional organizations. His legacy continues to inspire generations in Nigeria and beyond.
