It’s not every day that you sit down with a woman who has quietly but powerfully shaped the financial backbone of an entire nation. But Dr. (Mrs.) Oluwatoyin Madein, the just-retired Accountant-General of the Federation, is no ordinary woman. In fact, she’s a legend in her own right — the kind of public servant who worked with grace, grit, and an unwavering moral compass, leaving a blueprint for excellence in financial governance.
As she marks her 60th birthday and takes her final bow from public service, we catch her in a rare moment of reflection — and celebration. For over three decades, she climbed the rungs of Nigeria’s civil service, from her humble beginnings at the Raw Materials Research and Development Council to becoming the first female professional Accountant-General of the Federation.
With an impressive career that spans 32 years, Dr Madein championed landmark reforms that brought transparency and accountability back to public finance. From strengthening the Treasury Single Account (TSA), Integrated Personnel Payroll Information System (IPPIS), and Government Integrated Financial Management Information System (GIFMIS) to establishing the internationally recognised OAGF Library and stalling cash revenue collections that bred corruption, her legacy is nothing short of transformative. She didn’t just manage Nigeria’s money — she managed to inspire confidence, fairness, and trust in a system long burdened by inefficiency.
A Fellow of the ACCA, a Doctor of Business Administration (Honoris Causa), and a Ph.D. holder in Management Finance from Walden University, Dr. Madein is proof that intelligence paired with integrity can, in fact, move mountains. And if you ask anyone in the Ministry of Finance or among the ranks of Nigeria’s civil service, they’ll tell you — Oluwatoyin Madein moved more than mountains. She moved systems, people, policies, and mindsets.
In this exclusive interview, we speak with the woman of numbers, nerve, and national impact to talk about life after service, her groundbreaking achievements, turning 60, and what it truly means to lead with heart and purpose.
Your career in the Federal Civil Service spans over 30 years. What inspired you to pursue a career in finance and accounting, and how did you maintain your passion throughout the decades?
Several factors drew me in. Accounting was a high-demand profession, and I knew those skills could take me anywhere. It offered job stability and variety—from auditing to financial analysis. There were also clear paths for growth, even the option of starting my own practice someday. As for sustaining the passion, it took focus and continuous development. I took courses, pursued higher education, learned new skills. That kept the work fresh. And in tough moments, I reminded myself why I chose this path. That sense of purpose never left.
As the first female Accountant-General of the Federation, how has your journey been breaking barriers in what has traditionally been a male-dominated field?
Challenging but rewarding. From the start, I had to believe in myself, even when I was the only woman in the room. I built a strong network and worked both hard and smart. At times, I faced scepticism or outright bias. But I didn’t let it discourage me—instead, I used it as motivation to deliver results. With time, my work began to speak louder than any doubt. I’ve also been deliberate about encouraging more women to step forward. Every challenge I overcame, I saw as an opportunity to pave the way for others.
Navigating through various ministries and roles, what were some of the biggest challenges you faced as a woman in leadership, and how did you overcome them?
One major challenge was dealing with outdated mindsets. Some people believed women shouldn’t be in top leadership roles. Sometimes, the bias was subtle, sometimes not. I constantly felt the need to prove I belonged. I overcame it with resilience and by delivering consistent results. Allies and mentors—both male and female—were instrumental. Their support reinforced my confidence. Over time, as my performance spoke for itself, scepticism turned into respect. It wasn’t easy, but it was worth it. And I hope it made the road easier for those coming behind me.
Your journey from a middle-level officer to an influential leader in the civil service is truly inspiring. What qualities do you believe were crucial in helping you advance in your career?
Lifelong learning, perseverance, adaptability, and networking. I never stopped learning—attending trainings, earning certifications, and improving my skills. I built relationships across and outside my field, which opened doors. I also stayed patient during slower periods and adjusted easily to new environments and responsibilities. Mentorship played a big role too. I learned a lot from those ahead of me, and mentoring others also sharpened my leadership. Self-reflection helped me improve continually; of course, hard work and passion were the foundation of everything.
In today’s world, many women struggle with self-doubt and imposter syndrome. Did you ever face moments of doubt, and how did you convince yourself to keep pushing forward?
Absolutely. That little voice saying, “Can you really do this?” has visited me many times—especially when I took on bigger roles. But I learned to acknowledge those feelings rather than ignore them. Then, I’d counter them with facts: past successes, feedback, and my hard-earned experience. I’d talk to people I trust—family and close friends who’d remind me of my strengths. I also celebrate even small wins to build confidence. And I’ve embraced a growth mindset—viewing challenges as learning opportunities, not as proof that I’m not good enough.
How do you think women’s representation in finance and government has evolved during your career?
There’s been a real shift. When I started, very few women held top finance or government roles. Today, we see more women as directors, commissioners, even ministers. This change came through persistent advocacy and women proving their competence. Organisations are now beginning to understand that diversity brings real value—not just for optics. We’re not there yet, but we’ve come a long way. And I’m proud to have played a part in that progress.
What message would you like to send to women who aspire to hold leadership positions in their respective fields?
Believe in yourself and invest in yourself. Keep learning. Don’t wait for opportunities—seek them or create them. Use your unique strengths—whether it’s empathy, creativity, or analysis—to lead authentically. Communicate effectively. Set goals, maintain balance, and don’t let fear hold you back. Remember: you belong in every room you walk into. And when you get there, don’t forget to pull others up with you.
You have achieved incredible academic and professional milestones. What role did education play in your career success, and how did you balance those pursuits with work and family life?
Education was foundational. My degrees and fellowships set me apart and deepened my understanding of finance and ethics. They also expanded my network and opened doors. Balancing all that with work and family took planning and support. I communicated with my family, created schedules, and set boundaries. I sacrificed leisure, but I made time for rest and family. Support from my husband and kids helped immensely. I also practiced self-care—because if you burn out, everything else suffers. Looking back, it was tough but absolutely worth it.
Work-life integration is a challenge many women face. As a wife, mother of four, and accomplished professional, what strategies did you use to maintain balance and harmony in your personal and professional life?
Planning, communication, and clear priorities. I live by my calendar! Family events go on it, just like work meetings. I plan ahead to avoid conflicts and communicate any busy periods with my husband and children. We maintain family routines—dinners together, Sunday outings, vacations. I also protect emotional connection—if I miss something important, I acknowledge it and make it up. And I never forget that my role at home is just as important. Whether it’s managing finances or helping with homework, being present matters. It’s not always perfect, but with structure and love, we’ve made it work.
As someone who was a pioneer staff of the Family Economic Advancement Programme (FEAP) and the National Poverty Alleviation Programme (NAPEP), how did those experiences shape your perspective on economic empowerment, particularly for women?
Those roles were life-changing. I saw how small interventions—like microloans or training—could transform lives, especially for women. I worked directly with women’s groups in rural communities and saw their resilience and resourcefulness. Many had little formal education but were running thriving small businesses. These experiences reinforced my belief in grassroots empowerment. It also inspired me to start an NGO focused on women and children. When you empower women, you uplift entire communities. That lesson has stayed with me throughout my career.
What role did mentorship play in your career, and what advice would you give young women looking for mentors in their respective fields?
Mentorship was crucial. I had mentors who gave me practical advice and supported me through transitions—whether it was managing budget meetings or motherhood. They helped me avoid mistakes and grow faster. I now mentor others, and I find that just as fulfilling. My advice? Don’t be afraid to ask. Identify someone you admire and respectfully reach out. Once you have a mentor, be open to feedback and keep them updated on your progress. And mentor others, too, no matter where you are on your journey. That chain of support is powerful.
With your demanding career and multiple roles, how do you prioritise your health and wellness to maintain peak performance and mental clarity?
Health is non-negotiable. I rest whenever I can—sleep is vital. I eat balanced meals, stay hydrated, and keep sweets in moderation. I exercise lightly—walks, stretches, and simple routines at home. And I prioritise mental and spiritual health through prayer and quiet reflection. I schedule wellness like I schedule meetings. It’s what allows me to stay sharp and effective, both at work and at home.
As a seasoned accountant with decades of experience, what is the best financial advice you have to offer?
My best financial advice is simple: always have a solid plan and stick to it. Whether you’re managing a personal budget or the finances of an entire nation, discipline is key. Create a roadmap and follow it. Of course, life is unpredictable—you may need to adjust occasionally—but do it cautiously and in a limited way. Be flexible, yes, but stay disciplined. That’s how you achieve financial stability and meet your goals.
Your leadership and financial expertise have undoubtedly impacted many lives. How do you envision your legacy, and what message would you like to leave for the next generation of women leaders?
I hope to be remembered for my values—integrity, empathy, and dedication—and for lifting others as I climbed. I want people to say, “She cared, she helped, she inspired.” I’ve contributed to reforms that I hope will outlive me, but it’s the people I’ve mentored, supported, and encouraged that matter most. To young women: define success on your terms. Lead with empathy. Be firm, but kind. Don’t lose your voice trying to fit in. And always leave the door open for others. That’s the kind of legacy that truly lasts.
Finally, what is the one piece of advice you would give to young women who aspire to break barriers and reach the highest levels of their careers, just as you have?
Be bold and stay resilient. Don’t let the fact that something hasn’t been done stop you from doing it. Equip yourself—learn, work hard, speak up. Create your own opportunities. Yes, you’ll face setbacks and self-doubt, but don’t give up. And when you break that barrier, hold the door open for others. Your victory won’t just be yours—it will be a beacon for others following your path.
