“How I failed, rewrote the exam and qualified at 16” — Nigeria’s youngest chartered accountant

Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara recently emphasized the importance of God-fearing leaders in transforming Nigeria's socio-economic landscape. During a meeting with the World President of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, Pastor Erton Kohler, and other church officials at the Government House in Port Harcourt, Fubara asserted that the nation's current challenges stem from a lack of spiritual conviction among its leaders. He argued that true transformation can only occur when leaders prioritize moral integrity and divine guidance over personal ambition. This statement comes amid ongoing discussions about governance, corruption, and developmental disparities within the country.

The meeting took place on Thursday, with Fubara expressing gratitude for the Adventist Church's longstanding contributions to education and leadership development. The church, which operates two universities in Nigeria, has consistently invested in nurturing both religious and secular talent. Fubara highlighted the dual purpose of these institutions—spreading the Christian faith and preparing capable leaders for national service. He underscored that such efforts align with the broader goal of producing leaders who are not only well-educated but also deeply rooted in ethical values.

Fubara pointed out that the absence of God-fearing individuals in positions of power has led to systemic issues such as social inequality, poverty, and corruption. He called for a societal shift toward prioritizing moral responsibility and accountability. In his view, genuine progress can only be achieved when leaders operate under the principle of fearing God, which he believes instills a sense of duty and restraint. "If you have the fear of God," he remarked, "there should be a limit to what you can do because you understand the supremacy of God." Conversely, he warned that without such a foundation, individuals might pursue self-interest at the expense of collective welfare.

The governor also addressed the economic conditions that contribute to social vices. He proposed that ensuring access to affordable quality education and healthcare could reduce the incentives for criminal activity. "If we have a situation where the little money you're paid as wages can also afford you quality healthcare and after working for at least 15 to 20 years you have a roof over your head," he explained, "tell me why you should be involved in any kind of crime?" His remarks reflect a growing concern about the link between socioeconomic stability and public behavior.

In addition to praising the church's educational initiatives, Fubara assured the visiting delegation of his continued support for their programs in Rivers State. He acknowledged the significance of their presence and the spiritual encouragement they bring. Pastor Kohler, in turn, expressed appreciation for the warm welcome extended to the group. He noted that the visit coincided with a major church conference aimed at empowering ministers through training and leadership development. The Seventh-day Adventist Church, with over 24 million members and 182,000 places of worship across 212 countries, remains a significant force in global religious and humanitarian efforts.

Meanwhile, another notable development emerged in the form of Osasere Okundaye, Nigeria's youngest chartered accountant. At just 16 years old, Okundaye has become the new record holder for the youngest person to qualify as a chartered accountant in Nigeria. Her journey began with enrolling in the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) program after finishing secondary school early. Despite initial difficulties due to her lack of formal accounting education, Okundaye persevered and eventually succeeded. She faced a setback when she failed one of her final exams but managed to retake and pass it, securing her qualification at an unprecedentedly young age.

Okundaye's achievement has drawn widespread attention, including praise from prominent figures such as the founder of the Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries, Dr. Daniel Olukoya. He hailed her success as a testament to divine favor and human perseverance. Olukoya emphasized that Okundaye's story serves as an inspiration to young people, demonstrating that age is not a limiting factor in achieving greatness. The Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, also lauded her as a beacon of hope for Nigerian youth, highlighting her potential to drive change in the country.

These two developments—one focused on leadership and morality, the other on youthful ambition and academic excellence—reflect the diverse narratives shaping contemporary Nigerian society. While Fubara's call for God-fearing leaders underscores the role of spirituality in governance, Okundaye's story highlights the power of determination and hard work in overcoming obstacles. Both stories, though distinct, contribute to a broader conversation about the factors influencing national progress and individual success. As Nigeria continues to navigate complex challenges, these examples offer valuable insights into the paths forward.