Women accountants in Kwara State have been urged to remain steadfast in upholding the values of integrity, truth, and accountability, despite societal pressures that may challenge their professional ethics.

The newly inaugurated Chairperson of the Society of Women Accountants of Nigeria (SWAN), Ilorin Chapter, Hajia Bilkisu Lawal, gave the charge during her investiture ceremony as the third chairperson of the chapter.

Addressing members at the event, Hajia Lawal emphasised the importance of ethical conduct in the accounting profession. According to her, “Even though society often tags women as emotional, we must not allow ourselves to be swayed or pressured into compromising the integrity that defines our profession.”

Outlining her agenda, Hajia Lawal revealed plans to build on the legacies of her predecessors through targeted programmes aimed at professional development and community engagement. “We will promote corporate social responsibility among our members and initiate awareness campaigns through school debates, guidance programmes, and sensitisation drives,” she stated.

She also highlighted plans to support young women entering the profession by offering continuous education and mentorship. “We will spotlight the achievements of women in accounting and create platforms that promote intellectual growth,” she added.

Representing the National Chairperson of SWAN, Mrs Hilda Ozoh, the Ogbomosho Chapter Chairperson, Mrs Kadirat Raheem, encouraged the new executives to uphold the principles of the association. “Let your leadership reflect the core values of SWAN and focus on elevating the status of women through meaningful policies and initiatives,” she advised.

In his remarks, the Special Guest of Honour, Professor Suleiman Ambali, praised the initiative, describing it as more than a leadership handover. “This is a celebration of professionalism and excellence. Accountancy is not just a career, it is a responsibility of trust and a tool for accountability. What SWAN is doing here is worthy of emulation,” he said.

The Chairman of the event, Dr Mercy Shittu, commended Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for his inclusive policies that support women’s advancement in Kwara. “With the kind of support women are receiving in this state, it is only a matter of time before we see a female Accountant General from Kwara,” she predicted.

Dr Shittu urged members to remain committed and diligent in their duties, while the immediate past Chairperson, Mrs Mojirola Afolayan, called for unity and support for the new leadership. “Let us work together in line with the SWAN constitution to move this chapter forward,” she said.

The ceremony concluded with the swearing-in of the 11-member executive council by the National Chairperson’s representative.