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Dr. (Mrs.) OLUWATOYIN MADEIN Told City People
History was made in May, 2023 when Dr. (Mrs.) Oluwatoyin Sakirat Madein became the first woman to serve as Nigeria’s Accountant-General of the Federation, breaking a barrier that had existed for decades in the country’s public finance administration.
At the 2026 City People Awards for Excellence, the highly respected financial expert was honoured with the Woman of the Year Award in recognition of her remarkable career, exemplary leadership and lasting contributions to public service.
Moments after receiving the prestigious award at the colourful ceremony held at the Island Club, Onikan, Lagos, Dr. Madein now retired spoke with City People Reporter, JAMIE ABUBAKAR (08085185886) about what the honour means to her, her journey to the top, the principles that guided her tenure, and the message she has for women aspiring to leadership positions. Below are excerpts:
How do you feel receiving the City People Woman of the Year Award?
I feel highly elated to receive this award from the City People Media Group. I sincerely appreciate the organisation for finding me worthy of this recognition.
I also congratulate City People on its 30th anniversary and commend the organisation for celebrating excellence in such a remarkable way. It is gratifying that they have chosen to recognise some of us who have quietly dedicated many years to serving our nation.
I pray that God will continue to bless City People with greater success, wisdom and knowledge as they continue to inform, educate and promote positive stories about Nigeria, both at home and in the diaspora. I wish the organisation many more successful years ahead.
What makes today’s award particularly special to you?
What makes this award special is the fact that City People considered me worthy of the Woman of the Year Award during its 30th anniversary celebration.
Perhaps they looked at the achievements of different women and decided that becoming the first female Accountant-General of the Federation was deserving of recognition. That means a lot to me, and I truly cherish this honour.
In many professions, especially those traditionally dominated by men, women often have to work much harder to prove themselves. This recognition shows that excellence will always be acknowledged regardless of gender, and I sincerely appreciate City People for that.
How challenging was it becoming the first female Accountant-General of the Federation?
It was a great achievement, but it also came with enormous responsibility.
Unfortunately, when I assumed office, the image of the Office of the Accountant-General had suffered significant reputational challenges. Throughout my tenure, I made accountability and transparency my guiding principles.
I ensured that the system was managed with integrity and that national interest always came before personal interest. I invested a great deal of effort into delivering on the mandate entrusted to me, and by the grace of God, my efforts were crowned with success. For that, I remain grateful to God.
As a trailblazer and role model to many women, what message do you have for women aspiring to greatness?
My advice to women is to continue striving for whatever position they aspire to attain. Never give up on your dreams.
Work hard and earn your place through competence and excellence. Don’t assume opportunities will come simply because you are a woman. Compete fairly, confidently and professionally. Believe in yourself and put in the required effort.
Most importantly, never compromise your values or integrity. Whatever position you desire, pursue it with diligence, honesty and determination.
Competition is part of life, so don’t expect success without hard work. If you remain committed and do your best, God will surely bless your efforts.
You are now retired from public service, but certainly not retired from life. What are you doing these days?
(Laughs.) People often ask me, “Which office are you in now?”
I tell them that after spending 35 years serving in various federal government institutions, I have simply retired into private life.
I am now involved in private business activities, but beyond that, I am passionate about giving back to society.
I currently champion the Olowo Oloye Foundation for Education and Empowerment, a foundation committed to supporting women and students through education, mentorship and empowerment initiatives.
The foundation helps women build their capacity and become economically independent, while also supporting young people to pursue their educational dreams and become the best versions of themselves. For me, this is another meaningful way of contributing to national development and impacting lives.
