He noted that new chapters like the Nigerian Insurers Association and Federal Inland Revenue Service chapters preceded the aviation inclusion.  According to him, such targeted chapters bring ICAN’s benefits directly to specific sectors, increasing relevance and impact across industries.  

BY ANTHONY OMOH

Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo says that the recently inaugurated Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) Aviation Chapter serves as a catalyst for improved financial discipline across the entire aviation value chain. According to him, ICAN’s aviation chapter launch will drive sector-wide sustainable growth.  

The minister, represented by Director of Special Duties, Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, Henry Agbebire, made this known during Tuesday’s inauguration event in Lagos.  

The event held on April 22, 2025, at the Victoria Garden Conference and Event Centre, Ikeja, attracted key aviation and finance stakeholders.  

Keyamo emphasized that the establishment aligns closely with the Federal Government’s reform agenda within the Nigerian aviation industry.  

He commended pioneer Chairman Ayodele Olatiregun and the executive team, assuring them of the Ministry’s full support and collaboration.  

Agbebire, speaking on behalf of the minister, described the chapter’s theme as visionary, addressing urgent sectoral needs for transparency.  

He stated that the theme, Flightpath to Financial Excellence: Integrating Strategy, Systems, and Standards, was apt for current realities.  

According to him, the aviation industry needs accountability and resilience amid challenging economic conditions, which the chapter now aims to provide.” The establishment of this chapter speaks volumes about ICAN’s enduring commitment to nation-building through sound financial governance.”

ICAN President, Chief Davidson Alaribe, while speaking, revealed the journey to create the chapter began over ten years ago.  

He stated that ICAN’s aviation chapter launch aims to expand professional presence into vital industries, strengthening financial reporting standards.  

Alaribe reminded attendees that ICAN, created under Act No. 15 of 1965, started with 250 members and now has 66,000. He further noted that ICAN has a total of 86 districts, 79 districts in Nigeria and one each in Malaysia, United Kingdom, United States of America, Cameroon, South Africa, Ireland and Canada.

He noted that new chapters like the Nigerian Insurers Association and Federal Inland Revenue Service chapters preceded the aviation inclusion.  According to him, such targeted chapters bring ICAN’s benefits directly to specific sectors, increasing relevance and impact across industries.  

Alaribe encouraged youths to pursue certification early to build sound financial habits and ensure lasting professional development and accountability.  

Considering the rapid evolution of technology, regulation, and market demands, Alaribe urged, “It is therefore vital to adapt, innovate, and stay at the forefront of knowledge to remain relevant in an ever-evolving professional landscape”.

He emphasized that innovation and lifelong learning are vital to remain competitive and relevant within the finance profession globally.  

A key moment at the event was the investiture of Ayodele Olatiregun as the pioneer chairman of the new chapter. 

Olatiregun, in his speech, thanked FAAN Managing Director, Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, for her early support in launching the chapter.  He said the chapter is founded on three pillars: professional excellence, strategic collaboration, and sustainable financial systems.  Furthermore, he added that these principles will guide training, enhance certification, and build bridges among regulators, professionals, and policymakers.  

According to him, the vision is to be the leading financial authority in aviation across Nigeria, Africa, and the global space. Olatiregun stated that the chapter will champion governance, risk management, and technology adoption in the aviation finance landscape.  

As the industry adapts to future demands, this ICAN chapter positions finance professionals to lead change and ensure financial integrity.