LAGOS, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)- A final year Accounting student of Babcock University, Akalezi Deborah has emerged overall best in the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) November Diet Examination.
Deborah took the shine of the day as she received four prizes at the 73rd induction ceremony for newly qualified 2,015 new members in Lagos
She received the first merit prize for being the best at the professional level of the November diet of 2023; Akintola Williams Deloitte and Touché Prize for the Best Qualifying Candidate in a diet; Past President Dame Onome Joy Adewuyi Prize for the Best Qualifying Female Candidate in a diet and SWAN Prize for the Best Qualifying Female candidate in the diet.
While responding to questions, she said the key to her success was a combination of perseverance, mentorship, and adaptability.
“Initially, I planned to stagger my exams due to my internship commitments. However, Dr. Ajibade, my mentor in Babcock, recognized my potential and encouraged me to take all five papers at once.
READ ALSO: Dr Sanwo-Olu: Lagos Gov Receives Honorary Degree From Oyo Varsity Alongside Wike, Makinde
“Trusting his judgment, I committed fully and worked tirelessly to prepare. This unwavering support, coupled with my ability to adapt and stay focused under pressure, allowed me to excel beyond my expectations. The journey taught me the importance of pushing boundaries and the incredible impact of the right guidance,” she said.
Deborah expressed desire in taking on increasingly challenging roles within the accounting profession in the next few years saying: “My goal is to gain critical and diverse experience.
“I also aim to leverage my adaptability and commitment to become a well-rounded professional, contributing significantly to my organization and the industry.
“Ultimately, I aspire to hold a leadership position where I can influence strategic decisions and mentor others, continuing the cycle of support and excellence that has been crucial to my own success,”
Commenting on her excellent outing in the exams, the head of the department of Accounting, Prof Appolos Nwaobia, said Deborah is a model of what a committed, resolute and focused student should be.
“She is calm and humble. She is a pride to both her parents and the Department of Accounting of Babcock University. She will surely add value to our society. We wish her great success in her future career,” Prof Nwaobia said.
READ ALSO: Covenant University Beats UI, UNILAG, Others To Emerge Best In Nigeria
Also speaking, Dr. Ayodeji Ajibade said Deborah’s hard work and determination paid off beyond his expectations.
“She sat for five papers and cleared all at the same time,” he said.
The ICAN president Dr. Innocent Okwuosa who also spoke commended Deborah and other prize winners for their outstanding performance and urged them to contribute their best to the accounting profession in Nigeria and beyond.