At an age when many teenagers are still navigating secondary school, 16-year-old Osasere Okundaye has rewritten Nigeria’s record books by becoming the country’s youngest chartered accountant.
Her remarkable achievement has earned widespread praise, with the Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, describing her success as a powerful testament to hard work, discipline, resilience and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
In a statement released on Monday, the minister congratulated the teenager for reaching a milestone that many professionals spend years pursuing.
“I heartily congratulate Miss Osasere Okundaye on her outstanding achievement of becoming Nigeria’s youngest chartered accountant at just 16 years of age.
“This remarkable milestone is a testament to the power of hard work, discipline, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to excellence,” Olawande said.
He noted that Okundaye’s accomplishment reflects the limitless potential of Nigerian youths and should serve as an inspiration for young people across the country to dream bigger and pursue excellence.
“Osasere has distinguished herself as a shining example of the limitless potential of Nigerian youth. Her accomplishment reminds us that with determination, dedication, and the right support, young Nigerians can break barriers, set new records, and inspire a generation to strive for excellence,” he added.
The minister also commended her parents, family, teachers and mentors for the encouragement and sacrifices that contributed to her success.
“I also congratulate her parents, family, teachers, mentors, and everyone who has supported and guided her journey. Their encouragement, sacrifices, and belief in her abilities have undoubtedly contributed to this exceptional success,” he said.
Olawande reaffirmed the Federal Ministry of Youth Development’s commitment to creating opportunities that empower young Nigerians to realise their full potential.
According to him, Okundaye’s achievement reinforces confidence that Nigeria’s future remains bright in the hands of focused, determined and talented youths.
He also wished the teenager greater success in the years ahead, expressing hope that her inspiring story would motivate millions of young Nigerians.
Okundaye achieved the historic feat after qualifying through the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria, becoming the youngest person ever to earn the prestigious professional qualification in the country.
She broke the previous record set in 2022 by Jonathan Adewale, who became Nigeria’s youngest chartered accountant at the age of 17.
Widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s toughest professional certifications, the chartered accountant qualification is typically earned by university graduates and professionals after years of rigorous study and examinations, making Okundaye’s accomplishment even more extraordinary.
