New SWAN Chairman Urges Women Accountants in Kwara to Uphold Integrity, Resist Pressure
The newly inaugurated Chairperson of the Society of Women Accountants of Nigeria (SWAN), Ilorin Chapter, Hajia Bilkisu Lawal, has charged women in the accounting profession to remain steadfast in integrity and not succumb to emotional or external pressures that could compromise professional ethics.
Speaking during her investiture ceremony as the third chairperson of the chapter in Ilorin, Hajia Lawal stressed that despite societal perceptions of women as emotional, they must remain resolute in maintaining the core values of the profession—truth, accountability, and integrity.
“As women accountants, we must never allow pressure from any quarters to make us betray the trust our profession places on us,” she said. “Integrity must remain our compass, regardless of the challenges we face either at home, in our offices, or within society.”
Outlining her administration’s agenda, Hajia Lawal promised to consolidate the efforts of her predecessors while introducing new programmes aimed at advancing the chapter’s impact. These include organising sensitisation and orientation campaigns in secondary schools, school debates, and activities that promote professional awareness.
She also announced plans to launch initiatives focused on showcasing the achievements of women in the accounting field and providing mentorship and educational support for upcoming female accountants.
“We intend to create opportunities for continuous intellectual growth and help women entering the profession find their footing,” she added.
In a message delivered by Mrs Kadirat Raheem, Chairperson of the Ogbomosho Chapter, the SWAN National Chairperson, Mrs Hilda Ozoh, urged the new leadership to preserve the society’s values and work towards empowering more women through impactful programmes and policies.
“The expectations are high,” she said. “SWAN must continue to be a beacon of professionalism and gender advancement.”
Prof. Suleiman Ambali, who served as the Special Guest of Honour, described the investiture as a celebration of both leadership and excellence, noting that the accounting profession is built on trust and accountability.
“SWAN’s effort in providing a gendered perspective to accountancy is not just commendable, it’s necessary,” he said.
The event chairman, Dr Mercy Shittu, praised the administration of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for consistently providing women with platforms to excel in their careers. She expressed confidence that with such support, Kwara would soon produce a female Accountant General.
“I encourage all SWAN members to remain diligent and committed to excellence in their various roles,” she added.
The immediate past chairperson, Mrs Mojirola Afolayan, encouraged the new executive to remain focused, adhere strictly to the SWAN constitution, and seek unity within the society for greater progress.
The event concluded with the swearing-in of 11 new executive members, who took their oaths of office under the guidance of the National Chairperson’s representative.
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