Akintola Williams, the revered figure in Nigerian accounting, has sadly passed away at the remarkable age of 104. The news of his demise broke on Monday morning at his residence in Ikoyi.
Born in 1919, Williams pursued his accounting education at the University of London, where he became a qualified chartered accountant in 1947. Upon his return to Nigeria, he founded his own accounting firm in 1952, known today as Deloitte & Touche, formerly Akintola Williams & Co.
Throughout his illustrious career, Williams received numerous accolades and honors, including the prestigious Order of the Federal Republic (OFR) and the Nigerian National Order of Merit (NNOM). He held the esteemed title of Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales.
Notably, Williams held several key positions in the public sector, such as Chairman of the Federal Income Tax Appeal Commissioners from 1958 to 1968. He also served as a member of the Coker Commission of Inquiry into the Statutory Corporations of the former Western Region of Nigeria in 1962. Additionally, he contributed his expertise as a member of the board of Trustees of the Commonwealth Foundation from 1966 to 1975. In 1973, he chaired the Lagos State Government Revenue Collection Panel and later led the Public Service Review Panel to rectify anomalies in the Udoji Salary Review Commission in 1975.
Beyond his professional endeavors, Williams held significant roles in various organizations. He served as President of the Metropolitan Club in Victoria Island, Lagos, and played a foundational and council member role in the Nigerian Conservation Foundation. Furthermore, he founded and chaired the board of Trustees of the Musical Society of Nigeria.
During his 104th birthday celebration in August, President Bola Tinubu extended his heartfelt congratulations and admiration to the doyen of accounting in Nigeria and Africa.
Akintola Williams leaves behind a remarkable legacy, having made indelible contributions to the field of accounting and the Nigerian public sector. His impact will be remembered and cherished for generations to come.
