The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has mourned the passing of elder statesman and doyen of accounting in Nigeria, Chief Akintola Williams, who died aged 104 years.

In a statement, the governor said: “I am immensely saddened by the news of the passing of our elder statesman, an economic titan and the doyen of the accounting profession in Nigeria, Chief Akintola Williams. 

“Akintola Williams lived a long and fulfilled life, having made his mark as not only the first Nigerian to qualify as a chartered accountant but also led the envious legacy as one of Nigeria’s most accomplished professionals in the corporate world.

“A rare breed, Chief Williams played a key role as a nationalist, as he was a contemporary of key figures in Nigeria’s historical development, including Chief Obafemi Awolowo, fighting together for the independence of our dear nation and keeping on with the drive to see Nigeria lead the continent on different fronts.

“He set up the first accounting firm in Africa, Akintola Williams & Co., in 1952 upon qualifying as the first Nigerian chartered accountant and expanded to other countries of the world. 

The governor continued: “Chief Williams, perhaps, made some of the most consequential contributions to the development of the Nigerian economy through his interventions in the setting up of the Nigeria Stock Exchange (NSE) and the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN).

“He was upright, intelligent and cosmopolitan, making enormous impact in the business community and in promoting probity and good governance.

“The business community has indeed lost a beacon and compass who provided light and direction to the Nigerian state.” 

The governor further noted, “He will be remembered for his knack for excellence, his undying quest for truth and justice and an abiding commitment to the development of our dear nation.

“I commiserate with Seni, the Williams' family, friends and associates and pray that God will grant all the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss. Adieu.”