In a nation where professional communities are increasingly called to deliver societal value beyond technical competence, the Lekki & District Society (LEDS) of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) has stepped into a new chapter, one defined by purpose-driven leadership and strategic inclusivity.
Barely three years since its founding, LEDS has transformed from a network of just 30 members to a district of over 400 professionals.
The momentum continued recently with the investiture of its fourth Chairman, Patrick Asese Aliu Akamiokhor, a ceremony that did more than honour tradition. It unveiled a forward-thinking blueprint for growth, youth mentorship, digital transformation, and civic engagement.
A leadership committed to impact
Akamiokhor succeeds Olufunmilayo Olaniyi, under whose tenure the District recorded remarkable financial and operational growth. In his inaugural address at the event, Akamiokhor made clear his administration’s intent to build on that foundation while scaling new heights.
“I accept this role wholeheartedly,” he said. “Our focus this year is clear, we are growing bigger and stronger. Our mandate is not just to sustain momentum but to expand our footprint through service, innovation, and structure.”
Speaking further, Akamiokhor noted that his leadership roadmap features nine core initiatives, including the launch of a quarterly journal, the enhancement of office functionality, the development of a five-year strategic plan, the expansion of school outreach programs, and the rollout of accessible webinars and structured mentorship sessions.
Past Achievements Fuel Future Ambitions
Delivering a heartfelt valedictory speech, Olaniyi outgoing Chairperson reflected on a tenure defined by measurable impact.
Under her leadership, the District’s financial reserves soared from ₦4 million to over ₦26 million. The District also acquired a ₦13.5 million property for its permanent office, a significant step toward long-term institutional stability.
Membership surged by over 70 percent in just one year, bolstered by a strategic three-pronged approach: personal outreach to members, active participation in ICAN events, and targeted courtesy visits to corporate organizations. These efforts significantly elevated the District’s visibility and earned it broader recognition within the ICAN community.
“The true value of any effort is revealed at its end,” Olaniyi said in an interview. “This chapter closes on a note of gratitude and undeniable progress.”
The District also recorded notable gains in member engagement. Attendance at the 54th Annual Accountants Conference in Abuja increased more than threefold, from 15 to over 55 participants. LEDS also made its mark at the Western Zonal Leadership Retreat in Ile-Ife and placed 5th out of 26 contestants in the prestigious FAME competition, affirming the success of its youth engagement strategies.
Also at the investiture event, Adeyemi Adediran, Chairman of the Investiture Planning Committee, endorsed his vision, describing Akamiokhor as a leader with an uncommon vision and purpose.
“I do not doubt that under his guidance, we will achieve greater heights, not only within ICAN but across the entire Lekki Peninsula,” Adediran said in his speech. He went on to emphasise that the new chairman’s focus on continuity and strategic growth would position LEDS as a key player in shaping the future of the accounting profession in Nigeria.
Strategic Outlook: Mentorship, Outreach, and Long-Term Relevance
Under Akamiokhor’s leadership, the District’s focus shifts toward sustainability and generational impact. At the heart of this vision is the Catch Them Young initiative, which aims to reach at least 12 schools in 2025. “Branded ICAN notebooks, pens, and textbooks will be distributed, and the outreach will be coordinated through specialised teams targeting tertiary institutions, private secondary schools, and public schools, planting seeds of financial literacy and professional ambition early,” the new chairman told BusinessDay
“Complementing this is the planned launch of the LEDS Quarterly Journal, which will showcase technical papers and member insights both online and in print,” he continued. “A five-year succession roadmap will guide leadership continuity, while a robust CSR strategy will amplify the District’s neighbourhood outreach.”
Akamiokhor also pledged to host quarterly webinars, deliver basic financial training for small business owners within the Lekki community, and formalize mentorship structures for new inductees.
“This is not only about numbers, but also about relevance,” he stated, adding that “We want to be felt, seen, and remembered in Lekki and beyond.”
