Stephen Akwaden Inducted as 7th ICAN Lafia District Chairman, Vows to Enhance Professionalism
By Roseline Okafor, Nasarawa.
The Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), Lafia District Society, held its investiture ceremony for Mr. Akwaden Stephen Thomas, FCA, as the 7th Chairman, alongside the inauguration of the 2025/2026 Executive Committee.
The event took place at the S.B. Mohammed Auditorium and was attended by dignitaries from various walks of life, including former Vice Chancellor Prof. Suleiman Bala Mohammed.
In a remark, prof. Sa’adatu Hassan Liman, the Vice Chancellor of the Nasarawa state University represented by Prof. Maikano Ari, expressed gratitude for the emergence of Akwaden as ICAN state chairman, considering his pedigree bin accounting profession.
“I thank ICAN for affirming our belief. Stephen Thomas Akwaden is a man of integrity, steadfastness, and dignity. On behalf of the University, we’ll continue to support ICAN and look forward to a fruitful engagement.”
In his investiture speech, Mr. Akwaden stated, said the moment is not just a personal milestone but a solemn call to service and appreciated members of ICAN for their unwavering commitment towards promoting the affairs of the noble association.
“My administration is committed to the theme ‘Elevating Professionalism, Expanding Impact.’ Our vision will be anchored on five core pillars: increasing student membership and youth engagement, regular and relevant CPD programmes, community outreach and public engagement, academic and institutional partnerships, and strengthening institutional processes and legacy projects.”
He also announced a significant initiative for the newly admitted accounting students at Nasarawa State University Keffi (NSUK), promised to sponsor up to 50 of the best graduating students who wish to register for the ICAN exams and become Chartered Accountants.
In their goodwill messages, former vice Chancellor of the University, Prof. Suleiman Bala Mohammed, Prof. G.A. Amuga, who spoke on behalf of chapel of salvation, praised Akwaden’s contributions towards the development of the University.
Prof. Suleiman Bala Mohammed commended Akwaden’s work with the university, saying, he is an embodiment of knowledge and hard work.
Dr. Abdulraheed Balogun, FCA, representing the 61st ICAN President, Mallam Haruna Yahaya, charged the new chairman to lead with purpose, aligning his district plans with ICAN’s ten-point agenda.
The University’s Bursar, Mallam Murtala Abubakar Kana, also congratulated Akwaden, said Thomas’ journey is a testament to his unwavering commitment, dedication, and hard work.
The ceremony concluded with the official investiture and oath-taking of Mr. Akwaden Stephen Thomas, FCA, and the swearing-in of the new ICAN Lafia District Executive Committee.
