…Unveils “Beyond the Ledger” to Tackle National Fiscal Governance
…Launches Olowo Oloye Foundation to Drive Grassroots Education and Empowerment
It was a convergence of the nation’s “Who’s Who” in the corporate, political, and traditional spheres as the immediate past Accountant-General of the Federation, Dr. (Mrs.) Oluwatoyin Sakirat Madein, celebrated her 61st birthday with a grand triple-header event.
The ceremony, held at the prestigious Lagos Marriott Hotel, Ikeja, served as a platform for the public presentation of her memoirs and the official unveiling of a philanthropic foundation. The atmosphere was one of profound gratitude, reflecting the celebrant’s transition from the peak of public service to a new chapter of mentorship and giving.
As the first female Accountant-General of the Federation (Retired), Dr. Madein’s milestone was more than a personal anniversary; it was a celebration of a glass ceiling shattered. Her tenure was widely regarded as a period of rigorous fiscal discipline and modernization of the nation’s treasury.
The event kicked off with a welcome address by the Chairman of the Planning Committee, Dr. Joke Sofowora. She described Dr. Madein as a “resilient professional and a trailblazer” who navigated the complexities of Nigeria’s financial landscape with unyielding integrity and dedication.
”We are not just gathered to cut a cake,” Dr. Sofowora remarked. “We are here to recognize a woman whose discipline and commitment to public financial management have left an indelible mark on our national development.”
A major highlight of the day was the official launch of the Olowo Oloye Foundation for Empowerment and Education. The initiative is designed to provide sustainable support for students and create economic opportunities for the underserved across various communities.
Speaking during the foundation’s unveiling, Prince Gbolahan Oso emphasized that the NGO was born out of Dr. Madein’s lifelong passion for human capital development.
He noted that the foundation would focus on bridging the gap for those who lack the resources to pursue their academic dreams.
Former Ogun State Governor, Chief Olusegun Osoba, who served as a father figure at the event, lauded the initiative. He stressed that expanding access to free, quality education is the most enduring legacy any leader can leave behind, urging guests to donate generously to the cause.
The intellectual centerpiece of the celebration was the public presentation of Dr. Madein’s new book, titled “Beyond the Ledger: A Journey in Public Finance and Governance.” The book offers a rare, behind-the-curtain look at the intricacies of managing Nigeria’s wealth.
Reviewing the book, former Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Dr. (Mrs.) Folashade Yemi-Esan, described the work as a “compelling account.” She noted that it addresses the “economic realities” of budget management and the necessity of responsible borrowing in a developing economy.
Dr. Yemi-Esan further explained that the book serves as a manual for future public administrators, exploring themes of fiscal discipline and the administrative hurdles involved in modernizing the Federation’s accounts.
The book was formally unveiled by business mogul Sir Kesington Adebukunola Adebutu, represented by Aare Kola Oyefeso, and Chief Solomon Onafowokan, the Asiwaju of Remoland. Both icons commended Dr. Madein for her courage in documenting her experiences for posterity.
The Executive Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Zach Adedeji, sent a goodwill message praising the author’s contribution to financial efficiency. He noted that the book would be a vital resource for anyone interested in the stability of Nigeria’s macro-economy.
The Ministry of Women Affairs was also represented by Hon. Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, who, through Mrs. Ola Erinfolami, hailed the celebrant as a beacon of hope for women in the professional space, proving that merit and gender can go hand-in-hand at the highest levels.
Adding a professional perspective, Dr. Kayode Fasua, CEO of the Association of National Accountants of Nigeria (ANAN), spoke on Dr. Madein’s impact on the accounting profession. He highlighted her role in elevating the standards of the Nigerian College of Accountancy.
Former Ogun State Governor, Senator Gbenga Daniel, also took to the podium to pour encomiums on the celebrant.
He described her as “exceptionally hardworking,” noting that her rise to the top of the civil service was a testament to her character and competence.
The event saw a heavy presence of traditional rulers, underscoring the celebrant’s deep roots in her heritage. Notable among them were the Onipara of Ipara Remo, HRH Oba Taiwo Taiwo, and the Ebi of Idena, Iperu, Oba Lukman Oluwadamilare Adebambo Salami.
Other monarchs in attendance included the Onimeji of Imeji, Oba Babatunde Kayode Olayebo-Soda; the Alagbehinsha of Agbehinsha, Oba Isiaka Adekanmi Ogunnaike; and the Aregun of Iregun, Oba Abraham Adedoyin Ogunfowora, among others.
The celebratory mood shifted to a spiritual one during a session of musical worship and thanksgiving. Guests joined the celebrant in songs of praise, acknowledging the divine grace that saw her through a successful career in the public eye.
The ceremonial cutting of the 61st birthday cake followed, accompanied by a chorus of “Happy Birthday” led by the high-profile guests. It was a moment of pure joy for a woman who spent decades balancing the nation’s books.
In her response, an emotional Dr. Madein expressed heartfelt appreciation to her family, friends, and former colleagues.
She described the day as “deeply special,” noting that the launch of the foundation was the realization of a long-held dream.
”I am overwhelmed by the love shown to me today,” she said during her vote of thanks. “My career was about the numbers, but my life’s next chapter is about the people. I thank you all for standing by me as we go ‘Beyond the Ledger’.”
