The Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) has inaugurated its 75th District Society at the Federal Polytechnic Nekede, Owerri, with a remarkable gesture of support for education and professional development. The event, held on Friday, December 20, 2024, saw the presence of ICAN’s 60th President, Chief Davison C.S. Alaribe, FCA, who led his National Working Executive Team on a courtesy visit to the Rector, Dr. Mrs. Basilia Nkemdilim Igbokwe.

During the visit, Chief Alaribe praised the harmonious relationship between ICAN members and the polytechnic, which influenced the choice of the institution as the venue for the inauguration and investiture of the first Chairman of the ICAN Nekede District Society. In a significant gesture, the Women Chartered Accountants Network of ICAN conferred the Rector with the honorary title of Sister of Chartered Accountants (SCA), recognizing her unwavering support for professional accountants in the institution.

The ICAN President highlighted the institute’s commitment to advancing financial literacy and professional development, urging accounting students to promptly enroll for ICAN certification to enhance their career prospects. Demonstrating ICAN’s dedication to education, Chief Alaribe presented corporate accounting textbooks and laptops pre-installed with advanced accounting software to the institution’s Bursary Department. He affirmed that such donations reflect ICAN’s tradition of promoting excellence wherever they visit.

In her response, Dr. Mrs. Basilia Igbokwe warmly welcomed the ICAN delegation, expressing gratitude for the honor bestowed upon her and the institution. She pledged continued collaboration with ICAN to foster professional growth among staff and students. The Rector also commended the selection of Dr. Calistus Nkwocha, FCA, as the first Chairman of the ICAN Nekede District Society, describing him as a distinguished professional whose exemplary leadership would inspire others in the community.

The ceremony, held at the SMC Building, was attended by the Rector and all principal officers of the polytechnic. In her address, the Rector officially declared the event open and reiterated her commitment to supporting ICAN’s ideals. She also instructed her Special Assistant on Media Matters to amplify the importance of ICAN’s activities within the institution.

The vote of thanks was delivered by the institution’s Chief Librarian, who lauded ICAN’s generous donations, particularly the corporate accounting books, which he described as invaluable resources for academic and professional development.

The inauguration and investiture ceremony were hailed as a landmark event, further cementing Federal Polytechnic Nekede’s reputation as a hub for academic excellence and professional collaboration.