The newly elected Society of Women Accountants of Nigeria (SWAN) Representative for Lagelu & District Society of ICAN Mrs. Folasade Ayo-Kumuyi, FCA, has unveiled an ambitious vision centred on empowering women, mentoring aspiring accountants, and strengthening female participation in the accounting profession.
The accomplished chartered accountant and passionate advocate for women development disclosed her plans shortly after emerging as SWAN Representative for the 2026/2027 chairmanship year during an interview she granted in MFP studio.
According to Mrs. Ayo-Kumuyi, her administration will embrace an inclusive, committee-driven approach to ensure every woman has the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the activities of the association.
In her words, “All women within the district will be involved in our programmes”.
She explained that her administration would prioritise two flagship initiatives; sensitisation programmes for market women and structured career mentorship for female students studying Accounting and related disciplines across tertiary institutions in within the jurisdiction of Lagelu & district society of ICAN.
The mentorship initiative, she noted, is designed to expose young women to the opportunities available within the accounting profession while encouraging them to pursue professional qualifications early in their careers.
Speaking on the role of women in national development, Mrs. Ayo-Kumuyi observed that women have continued to distinguish themselves through ethical leadership, diligence, and impactful public service.
She pointed to the current Head of Service of Oyo State, Dr. Mrs.Adenike Fasina, mni as well as her predecessor, as notable examples of women whose leadership have positively influenced governance in the state.
According to her, women’s unique ability to balance multiple responsibilities has positioned them as indispensable contributors to organisational growth and national development.
In her words “Women are already impacting national growth through ethical leadership and service delivery”.
Addressing the challenges confronting women in attaining the peak of their professional careers, the highly respected Fellow of ICAN identified cultural limitations on female education, environmental and religious considerations affecting professional dressing, and family decisions that restrict women’s career advancement as major obstacles.
She, however, expressed optimism that these barriers could be overcome through sustained advocacy, by speaking out, seeking for counseling and help as early as possible.
Mrs Folasade Ayo-Kumuyi also expressed concern over the declining motivation among many students aspiring to become professionals, identifying lack of interest, inadequate moral support, and insufficient encouragement as major impediments to academic and professional success.
She urged students to remain focused, cultivate discipline, and intentionally seek mentorship from experienced professionals who can guide them towards fulfilling careers.
Widely regarded as a dedicated professional and an advocate of ethical leadership, Mrs. Folasade Ayo-Kumuyi is a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria whose commitment to professional excellence and the advancement of women continues to inspire many within and outside the accounting profession.
