Failure came before success for Osasere Okundaye. Nigeria’s youngest chartered accountant says she failed an ICAN examination before earning her qualification at just 16. Her story now inspires many young Nigerians.
LAGOS, NIGERIA — Osasere Okundaye, Nigeria’s youngest chartered accountant, has revealed that she did not achieve success on her first attempt at the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria, ICAN, examinations. Speaking in an interview published by Punch, the teenager said she failed one of the professional examinations before eventually qualifying as a chartered accountant at the age of 16.
According to the interview, Okundaye told Extra News Nigeria her setback became a turning point rather than an obstacle. She explained that the experience taught her resilience and encouraged her to work harder toward achieving her goal. She added that consistent preparation and determination helped her overcome the disappointment and complete the professional examinations successfully.
Okundaye said she never allowed the failed examination to define her future. She encouraged students and young professionals not to give up after experiencing setbacks, noting that challenges form part of every success story. According to her, discipline, focus and support from her family played important roles throughout her academic journey.
Her achievement has attracted widespread attention across Nigeria because becoming a chartered accountant at such a young age remains uncommon. The Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria conducts rigorous professional examinations that candidates must pass before receiving chartered status. Many candidates spend several years completing the qualification process, making Okundaye’s accomplishment remarkable despite the earlier setback.
The development means more young Nigerians may find encouragement to pursue professional careers without allowing temporary setbacks to discourage them. Okundaye’s experience highlights the value of persistence, preparation and continuous learning. Her story also reinforces the message that success does not always come on the first attempt and that determination can help candidates overcome challenges on the path to professional excellence.
