Sixteen-year-old Osasere Okundaye has made history by becoming Nigeria’s youngest chartered accountant, drawing national recognition and praise from the Federal Government for an achievement many have described as a powerful example of youth excellence.
The Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, congratulated the teenager in a statement on Monday, describing her accomplishment as proof that Nigerian youths can attain extraordinary success through dedication, discipline and resilience.
Olawande said Okundaye’s achievement demonstrates the immense potential of young Nigerians when given the right support and opportunities to thrive.
“I heartily congratulate Miss Osasere Okundaye on her outstanding achievement of becoming Nigeria’s youngest Chartered Accountant at just 16 years of age,” the minister said.
He added, “This remarkable milestone is a testament to the power of hard work, discipline, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
“Osasere has distinguished herself as a shining example of the limitless potential of Nigerian youth.
“Her accomplishment reminds us that with determination, dedication, and the right support, young Nigerians can break barriers, set new records, and inspire a generation to dream bigger and strive for excellence.”
The minister also acknowledged the role played by Okundaye’s parents, teachers and mentors in her remarkable journey.
“I also congratulate her parents, family, teachers, mentors, and everyone who has supported and guided her journey.
“Their encouragement, sacrifices, and belief in her abilities have undoubtedly contributed to this exceptional success,” he said.
Reaffirming the government’s commitment to youth development, Olawande noted that the Federal Ministry of Youth Development would continue to promote policies and programmes aimed at helping young Nigerians realise their full potential.
“As the Federal Ministry of Youth Development continues to champion policies and programmes that empower young people to realise their full potential, Osasere’s achievement reinforces our confidence that the future of Nigeria is bright in the hands of focused, determined, and talented young citizens,” he added.
Okundaye’s milestone comes barely a year after Temilola Blossom Arise, then an 18-year-old Economics student of the University of Ilorin, qualified as a chartered accountant after successfully passing all five papers in the professional stage examination of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN).
The latest achievement further highlights the growing number of exceptionally young Nigerians making significant strides in professional education and reinforcing confidence in the country’s next generation of leaders

