Akintola Williams, First chartered accountant in Nigeria celebrates 103 years (Video)
…reveals secrets of longevity
Vondigest reports that the first chartered accountant in Nigeria, Pa Akintola Williams turned 103 on Tuesday, August 9.
He was born on August 9, 1919.That was after the end of World War 1.
An intimate celebration was held to celebrate him.
Pa Akintola Williams was the first president of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria and played a leading role in establishing the association of accountants in Nigeria in 1960 with the goal of training accountants.
In a past interview, he revealed the secrets of his long life:
“The secret of my longevity is moderation. In everything I do, I strive to be moderate, and I mean moderate, a little of this and a little of that – not too much. Whether it is what you eat, what you drink, or whatever you do, just be moderate and you will live a refreshing, strong, and fulfilling life.
“When you are excessive in your daily life activities, you lose a life and its fantastic quality. But when you keep it moderate, you will not only be in control but enjoy life abundantly.
” Also, you have to endeavor to live a simple life, avoid controversies, conflicts, over-ambition, just live a simple life and life will be your friend.
“Please always take enough rest. I always observe my siesta, sleep about eight hours every day, and generally have enough rest. Your body is your priceless possession, so, please do not abuse it, for if you do, you will lose it.
“And please, do not play with exercise – mental, physical, and spiritual. The three go hand in hand. I still do my studies and attend to professional matters referred to me.
For once you stop exercising your brain, you die literally. I keep fit and I do not live a sedentary life.”
Pa Akintola Williams who granted this interview to Vanguard in 2011 when he turned 92 was the first Nigerian to qualify as a chartered accountant.
He began his education at Olowogbowo Methodist Primary School, Bankole street, Apongbon, Lagos Island, Lagos, in the early 1930s; the same primary school his late junior brother Chief Rotimi Williams attended. His youngest brother Rev James Kehinde Williams was a pastor in the same church. Olowogbowo Methodist Church.
Watch the video of his 103 birthday celebration below:
