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The Executive Committee, Diamonds and members of the Women’s International Shipping and Trading Association (WISTA) Nigeria have congratulated their President, Dr. (Mrs.) Odunayo Ani, ACA, FCTI, on her conferment of the prestigious ICAN Merit Award in the Members’ Diamond Category, describing the recognition as a fitting tribute to a distinguished professional and transformational leader.
In a congratulatory message issued on behalf of the Executive Committee, WISTA Nigeria praised Dr. Ani for her exceptional contributions to the accounting profession, maritime sector, and advancement of women in trade and transport, noting that her leadership continues to inspire excellence and inclusivity across industries.
The Committee described the award as a testament to Dr. Ani’s years of unwavering commitment to professional integrity, capacity development, and strategic advocacy, which have positioned her as a respected voice in both the maritime and financial ecosystems.
“Dr. Odunayo Ani’s remarkable journey reflects resilience, professionalism, and service. This prestigious recognition by ICAN further validates her immense contributions to national development and the empowerment of women within the maritime industry and beyond,” the statement read.
The Executive Committee further noted that under Dr. Ani’s dynamic leadership, WISTA Nigeria has continued to strengthen its advocacy for greater female participation in shipping, logistics, trade and transport, while fostering mentorship and professional development opportunities for women professionals.
The occasion was also graced by a former Director of Administration at the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Sarkin Yakin Zazzau, Alhaji Ibrahim Jibril, who spoke glowingly about Dr. Ani, drawing from his experience working closely with her during his time at NIMASA.
Jibril, a former President of the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT) Nigeria and the current International Vice President of CILT International, commended Dr. Ani for her professionalism, dedication and impactful leadership over the years.
Reflecting on their professional relationship, he described Dr. Ani as a committed and accomplished administrator whose passion for excellence has remained evident across every responsibility she has undertaken.
He encouraged her to continue making giant strides in the accounting profession while sustaining her advocacy and mentorship for women in the maritime sector, noting that her achievements serve as inspiration to younger professionals seeking to make meaningful impact.
Reaffirming its pride in her accomplishment, the WISTA Executive Committee said the honour was thoroughly deserved and expressed confidence that Dr. Ani would continue to set higher standards of excellence and impactful leadership.
“On behalf of the Executive Committee and the entire WISTA Nigeria family, we heartily congratulate our President on this well-earned recognition and celebrate this important milestone with her,” the statement added.
Responding to the honour, Dr. Ani expressed profound appreciation to the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) for recognising her with the ICAN Merit Award in the Members’ Diamond Category, describing the recognition as both humbling and inspiring.
“I am deeply honoured and sincerely grateful to the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria for conferring on me the ICAN Merit Award in the Members Diamond Category,” she said.
She specifically acknowledged the President and Chairman of Council, Mallam Haruna N. Yahaya; Vice President, Hajia Queensley Sofuratu Seghosime; Immediate Past President, Chief D.C.S. Alaribe; the Governing Council, Registrar/Chief Executive, Dr. Lanre Olasunkanmi, the Planning Committee and the entire ICAN family for the prestigious recognition.
According to her, the award represents not only recognition of past contributions but also a renewed call to uphold the values of excellence, integrity, professionalism and service to humanity.
“I dedicate this recognition to God Almighty, my family, colleagues, mentors, and everyone whose support and encouragement have been instrumental throughout my professional journey,” she stated.
Dr. Ani further expressed appreciation to the Society of Women Accountants of Nigeria (SWAN), led by Mrs. Blessing Osakwe-Ogo and Vice President, Mrs. Justyna Okosun Babatope, alongside other SWAN members, for their support and solidarity.
“In the same vein, a big thank you to the Society of Women Accountants of Nigeria and all my SWAN sisters for your support and love. I am extremely grateful to you all for coming out to rejoice and receive the award with me. God bless you all real good,” she added.
She reaffirmed her commitment to contributing meaningfully to the accounting profession and national development, while praying for continued progress for ICAN and its members.
