A final year Accounting student of Babcock University, Akalezi Chidinma Deborah has emerged best at the professional level of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) November diet of 2023.

Akalezi received four prizes in total at the 73rd induction ceremony for qualified 2,015 new members of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) in Lagos.

She received the 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.

Speaking about her academic feat at the highest professional accounting level, Akalezi said all those achievements were the results of 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. Trusting his judgment, I committed fully and worked tirelessly to prepare,” she said.

“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.”

Akalezi expressed desire in taking on increasingly challenging roles within the accounting profession in the next few years.

“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.

Akalezi added, “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, described Akalezi as a  model of commitment, resoluteness and focus.

“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”.