…as ICAN Awka, District Society mark investiture of 6th chairman

Valentine Ozigbo, a Nigerian business mogul and philanthropist, has promised to create a supercharged environment for businesses to thrive in Anambra State if elected as the state’s next governor.

Ozigbo made the pledge on Saturday, May 8, when he spoke at the inauguration of Chukwuemeka Oriaku as the 6th chairman of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), Awka and District Society.

In his address to the gathering of accounting professionals, Ozigbo, himself fellow of ICAN, asserted that it is time for professionals to take their rightful place in “charting the destiny of Nigeria”.

According to Ozigbo, part of the reason he departed the corporate world in 2019 and opened a new chapter of life in public service is to inspire other professionals to seek public office.

“Nigerian professionals have made ground-breaking strides in an environment that stifles innovation. Imagine what would be achieved if the conditions are favourable and friendly government policies buoy businesses,” Ozigbo, the immediate past President and Group chief executive officer, CEO, of Transcorp Plc, said.

“The solution is not far-fetched. What we require is leadership that understands Nigeria’s unique business climate and can find avenues to match innovation with opportunity.”

Ozigbo, who is widely regarded as the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, frontrunner ahead of the 2021 Anambra governorship election, congratulated Mr Oriaku on his inauguration.

“Leadership comes with a huge responsibility. But, in my world, it is an avenue to unite, develop, and create a sustainable roadmap for future successes,” Ozigbo said.

“As you take on this arduous task of leading fellow professionals, I wish you a successful tenure, the wisdom to take on the challenges that come with the office, and the courage to take ICAN to new heights.”

Ozigbo seized the opportunity to officially transfer his ICAN membership to the Awka District and Society, adding that he hoped to serve the institute and contribute to its rapid growth if he is elected governor of Anambra State come November.

Valentine Ozigbo is the founder of one of the most impactful non-profit charity organisations in Nigeria, Valentine Chineto Ozigbo, VCO, Foundation, which focuses on women and youth empowerment. Through its various programmes, it has positively impacted over 150,000 people in Anambra State.