By Odita Sunday
Patricia Chinwe Ofili-Ikpeazu, ACA, was officially sworn in as Chairperson of the Society of Women Accountants of Nigeria (SWAN), Abuja Chapter, on Wednesday, June 12, with a passionate call for purposeful leadership, inclusion, and service-driven impact.
Her acceptance speech, delivered before a gathering of colleagues, mentors, family, and friends, reflected deep gratitude and an ambitious vision for her tenure.
Describing her investiture as both an honour and a solemn responsibility, Ofili-Ikpeazu thanked God and the SWAN community for their trust.
She noted that the occasion was not just a personal milestone but a reaffirmation of the shared values and collective aspirations that bind women accountants together across Nigeria.
In her words, “Today’s oath is more than a ceremonial act; it is a solemn commitment to uphold the tenets of our noble profession with integrity and discipline.”
She promised to lead SWAN Abuja with a strong moral compass, underscoring that trust, ethics, and transparency would form the foundation of her leadership.
Her vision, she said, is to build a SWAN that not only exemplifies financial excellence but also leads with compassion, unity, and innovation.
Throughout her address, Ofili-Ikpeazu stressed the importance of professionalism and continuous learning in a rapidly evolving global economy.
She also made it clear that inclusivity would be central to her leadership, ensuring that every woman, regardless of background or experience feels valued and heard within the society.
She committed to fostering a culture of accountability and transparency, promising to uphold standards that promote responsible leadership and ethical financial practices.
Reconciliation and collaboration were also prominent in her message, as she called on members to put aside differences and unite around a shared purpose.
Emphasizing the power of collective strength, she introduced her tenure’s guiding theme: “Rebuild Trust Through Action.”
She affirmed her intention to lead with empathy, promising to keep her ears open to the needs and aspirations of members.
In a compelling pivot from professional ideals to humanitarian impact, Ofili-Ikpeazu outlined several initiatives SWAN Abuja will champion during her leadership.
One key area of focus is empowering women through financial literacy, particularly targeting female entrepreneurs in underserved communities.
This initiative will help women build sustainable businesses, access funding, and make informed financial choices.
She also committed to expanding the “Catch Them Young” mentorship initiative, which introduces young girls to the accounting profession through school outreach, career talks, and mentoring.
This, she said, is aimed at igniting ambition early and building a strong pipeline of future female accountants.
Ofili-Ikpeazu revealed plans to support female prisoners through rehabilitation and reintegration programs that provide vocational skills and financial education.
These programs, she explained, are designed to offer second chances and restore dignity.
She further pledged regular hospital visits and healthcare aid for vulnerable women and children, emphasizing that compassion must remain at the heart of the society’s mission.
Recognising the importance of caring for the most vulnerable, she promised support for orphans and elderly women, through educational sponsorships, financial assistance, and mentoring, steps aimed at rebuilding lives and restoring hope.
In closing, she described the moment as a turning point for SWAN Abuja.
She called on members to join her in building a stronger, more impactful society, one that transforms professional excellence into tangible progress for people and communities.
“I am honoured to take on this role, and I will not walk this path alone. Let us make history, make an impact, and build legacies”, she said.
Held in Abuja, the event drew an impressive list of dignitaries, with the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, CFR, serving as the Special Guest of Honour. His presence underscored the growing recognition of the role of women accountants in national development.
The Chairman of the occasion was represented by Professor Dapo Afolabi, CFR, a former Head of Service of the Federation, who stood in for Chief Tunde Afolabi, AMFR. In his remarks, he commended the vision and leadership qualities of the new chairperson and urged the SWAN Abuja Chapter to remain a beacon of professionalism and impact.
Hon. Benedict Etanabene, representing Okpe/Sapele/Uvwie Federal Constituency, attended as a Guest of Honour, alongside Hon. Ibe Okwara Osonwa of the Ohiafa Federal Constituency.
Both lawmakers applauded SWAN for its commitment to capacity building and social development, expressing optimism that under Ofili-Ikpeazu’s leadership, the Abuja Chapter would deliver on its mission.
Hajia Zainab Abubakar Ibrahim, the Deputy National Woman Leader (North) of the All Progressives Congress (APC), was honoured as the “Mother of the Day.”
In her goodwill message, she celebrated the achievements of women in the accounting profession and encouraged them to use their platforms to uplift others.
The ceremony also witnessed a significant judicial presence. Hon. Justice Gabriel Kolawole of the Court of Appeal administered the oath of office to the new chairperson in a solemn swearing-in ceremony.
He was joined by his colleague, Hon. Justice Kayode Adeniyi, who also graced the event and expressed his admiration for SWAN’s efforts in promoting ethical leadership.
Chief Mrs. Hilda Ofure Ozoh, the National Chairperson of SWAN, led members from across the country to witness the transition of leadership.
Her remarks reflected unity and purpose within the organisation, as she assured members that the national body stands firmly behind the Abuja Chapter.
Also in attendance was Barrister Ifeoma Ofili, Director at the House of Representatives, National Assembly, who added her voice in support of the new leadership. From the socio-cultural space, the leadership of the Oodua Progressive Union (OPU) turned out in strong numbers.
The OPU National President, Peter Kogolo, was present, alongside OPU Central Chairman, Patrick Chiemeke, and Steve Nwaoboli of the OPU Kubwa branch.