The Society of Women Accountants of Nigeria (SWAN) has sworn in its 12th National Chairperson, Mrs. Blessing Ngozi Osakwe-Ogo birthing a new era in the institute for its 2025-2027 term.
At an investiture event held at Muson Centre, Onikan in Lagos, 11 other executive members also took an oath of office, as the event further witnessed presentation of scholarships to four indigent female accounting students and the launch of the 2025 edition of the SWAN newsletter.
Speaking on behalf of the 61st President of ICAN, Mallam Haruna Nma Yahaya, a member of ICAN governing council, Dr. Kingsley Alozie commended SWAN for its outstanding contributions to the accounting profession over the decades. “In the last six decades of my time in power-connected economy, SWAN members have consistently played a pivotal role in shaping the institute’s processes.”
Highlighting their involvement in the Governing Council, strategic committees, and educational leadership, he applauded the fact that SWAN has produced numerous females past presidents.
Dr. Alozie reaffirmed ICAN’s commitment to gender equality, stressing that women bring balance, competence, and leadership to the profession. “We celebrate your strength, resilience, and unwavering commitment to excellence, and we remain committed to creating more opportunities for women to thrive and lead.”
Presidential candidate and former governor of Anambra state, Mr. Peter Obi while speaking at the event said that women accountants can play a key role in bringing back trust in government and financial institutions. He explained that the main duty of accountants is to ensure financial integrity, ensuring every penny of public funds is properly used. He added that accountants should question irregularities and challenge cases where funds are not applied as planned in the budget.
“One of the problems we have in Nigeria is that people who are supposed to question wrong practices are not doing so which is leading to a lack of accountability. It’s not just about celebrating the profession but about using it to build public trust.”
In her valedictory speech, 11th National Chairperson, Hilda Ofure Ozoh said she led transformative initiatives spanning education, advocacy, membership growth, and institutional strengthening during her two-year tenure.
From launching the SWAN Future Accountants programme and inaugurating new chapters including a landmark diaspora chapter in the USA to acquiring property and hosting global leaders like the IFAC President, her administration drove capacity building, collaboration, and visibility for women in accountancy. “With every dawn of each morning I was reminded of my solemn oath and personal determination to serve and to take our great Society to an enviable height.”
The 12th Chairperson, Mrs. Osakwe-Ogo, expressed gratitude to God for her appointment. She however admitted that in terms of achievement, there is none as she is just assuming office and looks forward to achieving more in the next two years with support from her fellow executives.
She advised SWAN members and women in general to keep up their good work and remain dedicated. “Women quite honestly have been supportive in carrying out a lot of cooperate social responsibilities of the institute, anytime we call upon them they answer us, with this continuous collaboration, we will achieve more.”
