The Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) Aviation Chapter is set to celebrate its first anniversary with a strong focus on financial governance and sector reform. Therefore, pioneer chairman Mr. Ayodele Olatiregun, has announced a ₦500 million endowment fund launch to secure its long-term sustainability and expand aviation finance development initiatives.
Mr. Olatiregun, in a statement signed by the Chairman Anniversary planning Committee, Rita Akpan, has described the journey of the institute as both challenging and rewarding. He stresses that the institute has steadily grown into a key platform for aviation finance professionals in Nigeria.
Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria
According to him, part of the investment will be directed towards operational stability while strengthening institutional capacity. In addition, the fund is expected to support structured training programmes, research activities, and broader professional growth across Nigeria’s aviation finance ecosystem.
The initiative also includes plans for a permanent office that will serve as a central coordination hub for members of the institute. However, beyond administrative functionality, the proposed development will integrate a knowledge centre designed to support continuous learning and collaboration.
In addition, the long-term vision of the institute extends further into the creation of a hybrid digital and physical library. Therefore, aviation finance professionals will have access to curated resources, research materials, and industry data to enhance decision-making and professional excellence.
As the ICAN Aviation Chapter approaches its first anniversary, the pioneer chairman, Mr. Olatiregun, further reflected on the steady growth of the institute, describing its journey as both challenging and impactful. He noted that the platform has evolved into a strong network of finance professionals across Nigeria’s aviation sector.
According to him, ICAN Aviation Chapter began with over 137 members and has continued to expand steadily. However, he emphasised that its growth reflects increasing interest among chartered accountants working within aviation institutions. The chapter was formally inaugurated on April 22, 2025, bringing together professionals across regulatory, operational, and service agencies.
The membership of the institute spans key aviation bodies including Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria, Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, Nigerian Airspace Management Agency, and Nigerian Meteorological Agency.
Meanwhile, agencies such as Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau and Nigerian College of Aviation Technology, alongside private sector operators, continue to reinforce the multidisciplinary reach of the institute. Therefore, it has become a growing platform for collaboration and financial governance in aviation.
Mr. Olatiregun explained that the creation of ICAN Aviation Chapter aligns with ICAN’s evolving industry-based structure, which allows professionals within specific sectors to form specialised chapters. However, unlike traditional district societies, this model promotes deeper technical engagement and shared problem-solving within industries.
In addition, he acknowledged that building the institute has not been without challenges. As a not-for-profit body, funding constraints and member engagement initially slowed momentum. However, sustained commitment from members and leadership helped stabilise operations and strengthen its foundation.
Beyond professional collaboration, the institute has also undertaken outreach programmes aimed at secondary school students. Therefore, these initiatives introduce young learners to aviation finance careers while providing mentorship and educational support. In addition, the institute continues to organise technical sessions and capacity-building programmes for members.
Activities marking the first anniversary of the institute will run for one week, beginning with a health-focused road walk and wellness session. Meanwhile, other events include an inter-school debate, sports competitions, courtesy visits to aviation institutions, a virtual MCPD webinar, and a gala night with fundraising activities.
Finally, Mr. Olatiregun expressed optimism that the institute will continue to strengthen financial governance in Nigeria’s aviation sector. Therefore, he said the ultimate goal is to build a lasting professional legacy that promotes accountability, collaboration, and excellence across the industry.
