Your world: Olanrewaju ‘Larry’ Sharafa

Tell us about your current roles and responsibilities

I am an education manager with expertise in corporate governance. As manager I undertake many responsibilities, including administering budgets and helping students attain qualifications.

What is your affiliation/link to the IFA?

I’m an IFA member and currently the regional director/international representative for Nigeria. It’s a new appointment for me; just this year.

What are you planning on achieving in your first year as representative for the IFA in Nigeria?

Marketing is a key area. I want to develop strong synergies with existing higher institutions of learning and professional membership organisations. My strategy to increase membership is institution-based, as they help you to get larger blocks of members. I’ll leverage my network as an accountant and member of other professional bodies in Nigeria.

What are your thoughts on doing business in Nigeria?

It’s a land of opportunity, with a massive population. It also has abundant resources. In terms of sectoral performance, agricultural sector is thriving. Most investors see large demand for their products because of the population – it’s a simple economic principle.

What events are you planning to run on behalf of the IFA?

I’m engaging with IFA in the UK to deploy virtual CPD programmes, which bring together IFA members in Nigeria and experts via webinars. The post-Covid-19 impact on business will be an important topic, and the role of accountants in supporting businesses to survive and grow.

I also see international opportunities for accounting professionals – the majority of members of local professional bodies have joined an international body to become international, which is why I’m a member of the IFA.

Why is being part of the IFA so important?

The IFA is a long-established membership organisation, recognised by IFAC. If you’re interested in the development of SMEs then this is the organisation to join.