Young Nigerian Becomes Chartered Accountant at 17

Arolayo Ajayi, a graduate of BSc Accounting from the University of Ilorin, has gained attention for becoming a qualified Chartered Accountant at the age of 17 and graduating with a first-class CGPA of 4.42. She previously earned her Associate Accounting Technician (AAT) certification at 16 and completed her full Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) qualification at 17.

During her four years at UNILORIN, Ajayi held the position of Director of the Investment Banking Division at The Investment Society UNILORIN, starting as a Senior Analyst. She interned at Rand Merchant Bank, Global Dynacon Partners, and Asset & Resources Holding Company.

Ajayi also excelled in competitions, serving as Team Lead and finishing as First Runner-Up at the CFA Research Challenge, where she received the Best Presenter award. She was a National Finalist at the CFA Ethics Challenge and led her team at the Inter-faculty Quiz competition.

Additionally, she held the MTN Foundation Scholarship and worked as an ICAN tutor. Ajayi is currently a final-level ACCA student.