Texas Governor Appoints Nigerian-American Kenneth Omoruyi to Key Regulatory Board

There is widespread jubilation among Nigerians at home and in the diaspora following the appointment of Nigerian-born Kenneth Omoruyi to the Texas State Board of Public Accountancy by Governor Greg Abbott.

The prestigious appointment recognizes Omoruyi’s outstanding contributions to the accounting profession and his unwavering dedication to public service. As a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and respected educator, Omoruyi is expected to play a vital role in regulating the accounting profession in Texas—ensuring practitioners uphold the highest ethical and professional standards.

Omoruyi’s story is one of resilience and inspiration. Raised in Nigeria by a single mother who worked as a street food vendor, he learned the values of hard work and financial discipline early in life. He pursued a degree in accounting at the University of Benin before immigrating to the United States in search of greater opportunities.

In the U.S., he earned a Master of Science in Business Taxation from the University of Southern California and obtained a Public Leadership Credential from the Harvard Kennedy School—credentials that would set him apart in the accounting world.

Currently serving as the Managing Partner at CKO CPAs & Advisors and as an adjunct professor at Lone Star College, Omoruyi has received multiple national accolades, including the CPA Practice Advisor 40 Under 40 Award and the AICPA Outstanding Young CPA Award. His brief foray into politics as a candidate for Texas’ 7th Congressional District also underscored his commitment to civic engagement and public service.

Reacting to the news of his appointment, Omoruyi expressed heartfelt gratitude:"I am profoundly honoured by this appointment. I dedicate this honor to my mother, whose staunch support has been my guiding force, and to my wife, whose encouragement has been most instrumental."

He added that his journey is a testament to the resilience of the African diaspora and the possibilities that abound through perseverance and education.

As he assumes his new role on the Texas State Board of Public Accountancy, Kenneth Omoruyi stands as a beacon of hope for many—particularly young Africans aspiring to make a global impact. His journey from the streets of Nigeria to a leadership position in one of the largest U.S. states exemplifies the limitless potential of determined individuals.