“It is not easy but it is possible” - David Odukoya, Overall Best in ATS 2 Says

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By Samuel Faseyitan
ICAN, a professional accountancy body that regulates the accountancy profession in Nigeria, held its 61st Association of Accounting Technicians West Africa (AATWA) induction ceremony for new members and the 29th AATWA annual general meeting on December 17th, 2024, at the ICAN Centre, Amuwo Odofin, Lagos. This event celebrated graduands who completed their journey to the ATS exams to become ATT certified, as well as those who finished either ATS 1 or ATS 2 in their pursuit of becoming chartered accountants. Additionally, this was the occasion where the prize winners were announced.

David Odukoya Fiyinfoluwa, an OAU Part 2 Economics student who had previously been the second overall best student in ATS 1, has decided to take the leap forward to become the overall best student in ATS 2. He also received 1 subject prize in ATS 1 and 2 subject prizes out of 4  prizes in ATS 2 exams is now spotlighted. In his Interview with a correspondent of Icons, David gives a glimpse of how he attained this academic feat despite pursuing a degree in Economics alongside other commitments.


Question: Can you please introduce yourself and explain what inspired you to pursue both an economics degree and a chartered accountant qualification?

Answer: My name is Odukoya David. I am a part 2 student in the Department of Economics at Obafemi Awolowo University. I initially wanted to study Accounting, but my dad made me realize that I could technically be both an Economist and an Accountant, which motivated me to take the ICAN examination.

Question: You have not only excelled academically in balancing pursuing an Economics degree and being the Overall best in ATS 1 & 2 ICAN certification but you have also bagged prizes on subjects offered. Please, can you list all your prizes out?

Answer: Second Overall Best Student ATS 1
Overall best student in Business Law (ATS 1)
Overall Best Student ATS 2
Overall Best Student in Quantitative Analysis (ATS 2)
Overall Best Student In Public Sector Accounting (ATS 2)

Question: How does it feel to be recognized at such a high level in Lagosboth on August 5th for ATS 1 and December 17th, 2024 for ATS 2?

Answer: I am humbled, honestly. All these have been way beyond expectations for me and I am so grateful to God for everything.
August, 2024. 

Question: With these achievements, would you say you expected to perform this well, or were you surprised by your success?

Answer: I expected to perform well, but not this well. It was a mixture of surprise, shock, joy and everything between.

Question: Balancing a university degree in Economics and ICAN’s ATS programs is no small feat. Were there any moments during your ATS exams when you thought you might not make it? What pushed you to keep going?

Answer: Yeah, absolutely. Especially during the exam, when ICAN appeared to have made every paper a control paper. But I guess I just kept going. That’s it; I just kept going. I have come this far, and I cannot stop now.

Question: We learned that you are also involved in tutoring and research for a company. What motivates you to engage in these additionalcommitments despite your tight schedule?

Answer: I mean it is all about developing new skills and making an impact. I am not one for a monotonous lifestyle. I love to try new roles and put myself out for opportunities.

Question: Outside of academics and work, what hobbies or activities help you relax and stay balanced?

Answer: My Biggest hobby is watching movies. Apart from this, I enjoy playing chess and table tennis, reading novels, and catching cruise.

Question: Who were your biggest supporters, and how did they contributeto your success?

Answer: I honestly can’t list all my supporters. Starting from my parents,families, and friends, the list keeps going. Everyone was a motivation for me. Knowing I have people rooting for me.

Question: What are your plans after completing both your degree and ICAN certification? Do you see yourself pursuing further certifications or degrees in the future?

Answer: For now, Nothing much. I guess I’d just say I’d love to take the CFA (Chartered Financial analyst) exams as well after the completion of my ICAN certification.

Question: Finally, What would you say to students who are struggling to balance academics with other pursuits?

Answer: I would say this: I know the struggle—it is not easy, but it is possible. Prioritize what truly matters, plan your time intentionally, and do not chase perfection. Progress, no matter how small, is the real win. Stay focused, and remember, consistency beats intensity every time.

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