Professor Teju Somorin
Professor Teju Somorin, a luminary in Nigerian tax system with a 46-year career, left an enduring legacy at the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) where she served from 1976 until 2010. As FIRS Board Secretary for 15 years, she played a pivotal role in tax reforms and was instrumental in advocating for the introduction of VAT in Nigeria.
Affectionately known as “TEJUTAX,” she singly authored 157 publications in Taxation, including the TEJUTAX Reference Books, totaling 2490 pages—a comprehensive tax encyclopedia. Recognized for her contributions, she received the 2016 All African Students Union Leadership Award and 48 other accolades in taxation.
Breaking barriers, Professor Somorin became the first female Professor of Taxation in Nigeria, the first female Professor of Caleb University, and the inaugural female President of the West African Union of Tax Institutes (WAUTI) from 2015 to 2017. She later became the second female President of the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN) and the first female head of the Association of African Tax Institutes (AATI) from 2016 to 2019.
In academia, she achieved historic milestones, obtaining the first MTAX and Doctor of Letters Degree in Nigerian Tax System. As the Pioneer Dean of the Tax Administration Faculty at CITN in 2013, she laid the foundation for future tax professionals.
Beyond CITN, Professor Somorin greatly contributed to the the FIRS Board, Joint Tax Board, and the Association of Professional Bodies of Nigeria (APBN). In 2019, she became the first female member of the FIRS Tax Advisory Committee, solidifying her impact on Nigeria’s tax landscape.
Adeyemi Ladejobi
Adeyemi Ladejobi, a seasoned Senior Business Analyst with over two decades of experience, boasts a remarkable track record in successfully steering projects, programs, and portfolios across diverse sectors. With a career spanning both Nigeria and the United Kingdom, he brings a unique perspective and enriched expertise to the table.
Throughout his illustrious career, Adeyemi has worn various hats, showcasing exceptional versatility as a Project Manager, Senior Business Analyst, Corporate Manager, and Events Manager in both public and private sectors. Commitment to excellence consistently shines through, evident in the triumphant delivery of projects, efficient resource management, and the strategic alignment of initiatives with organizational objectives.
A standout achievement for Adeyemi is his ongoing role as a School Governor in the UK for the past two years. This hands-on position provides invaluable insight into the intricacies of the education system, solidifying his commitment to driving positive change in this critical sector.
Adeyemi’s passion for education extends beyond the School Governor role. Over the years, he has passionately championed numerous educational causes. Notably, Adeyemi has been a staunch supporter of educational initiatives at Stanbic IBTC Bank, leveraging skills and experience to make meaningful contributions to their programs.
Furthermore, Adeyemi’s engagement with the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN) stands as a testament to his dedication to societal development. Serving as a three-time Secretary to the Annual Tax Conference Committee, he played a pivotal role in orchestrating impactful events that fostered knowledge exchange and professional growth within the taxation community.
Adeyemi’s professional journey reflects an unwavering commitment to excellence, a fervent passion for education, and a dedicated effort to make a lasting impact on society. As he continues this journey, his mission is to leverage his skills and experiences to drive positive change and create a lasting impact in the realms of business and education.
Abi Dare
Abi Daré is the author of The Girl with the Louding Voice, which was a New York
Times bestseller, a #ReadWithJenna Today Show book club pick, a BBC Radio 4 Bookclub Pick,and an Indie Next Pick. Translated into 20 languages( till date) and studied on curriculums across the world, the Girl With The Louding Voice tells the story of Adunni, a 14 year old girl who is desperate for an education. The novel has received critical acclaim and has been shortlisted for several awards including The British Book Awards Best Book of The Year , The Nigeria Prize for Literature ( Africa’s largest literary Prize), and in 2020 was named as The legendary Dolly Parton’s favourite of 2020 as well as selected as an Amazon Best Book of The Year for July 2020.