Razaq Ahmed, CFA, CEO and Co-founder of Cowrywise, delivered an insightful plenary address at the ongoing Western Zonal Accountants Conference in Lagos, where he engaged with some of the brightest minds in the accounting profession.
Speaking at the prestigious event hosted by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), Ahmed acknowledged the organization’s remarkable growth, with its membership surpassing 60,000 since its establishment in 1965. He emphasized that this figure represents more than just numbers—it reflects decades of dedication and excellence that have shaped Nigeria’s private and public sectors.
As the lead speaker in the session titled Redefining Value Beyond Financial Metrics, Ahmed underscored the need for businesses to evolve beyond traditional financial indicators. He stressed that digital innovation is a core driver of efficiency and growth, while workplace culture remains a pillar for employee motivation and productivity. He highlighted governance and sustainability as crucial elements for long-term stability and emphasized that customer satisfaction and brand loyalty are key measures of enduring success. He also spoke on the importance of impact-driven decision-making as a force for economic and social progress.
Beyond the thought-provoking discussions, Ahmed reflected on the power of community within the accounting profession. “The energy in that room was undeniable,” he stated. “It reinforced my belief that accountants are not just custodians of financial records—they are architects of economic growth, stewards of trust, and drivers of transformation.”
He commended ICAN for hosting a high-impact conference and expressed optimism about the continued role of accountants in shaping Nigeria’s economic landscape.
“Congratulations to the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria on a worthy and impactful conference,” Ahmed concluded.
