The Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN) has taken another step toward bridging the gap between academia and industry with the groundbreaking ceremony of the “CIBN Bankers Hall,” a fully furnished, 160-seater lecture theatre to be built at Babcock University.
The ceremony, held on Friday, January 24, 2025, at the university’s premises, marks a significant milestone in CIBN’s efforts to enhance banking and finance education in Nigeria. Speaking at the event, the President and Chairman of Council of CIBN, Prof. Pius Deji Olanrewaju, described the initiative as a legacy project aimed at fostering innovation, professional competence, and inclusivity in the banking sector.
“The CIBN Bankers Hall is more than just a building; it is a hub for learning, innovation, and excellence that will empower students and faculty to contribute meaningfully to the financial industry. This collaboration reflects our commitment to preparing the next generation of bankers for the challenges of the evolving financial landscape,” Prof. Olanrewaju stated.
Babcock University holds a unique place in CIBN’s history as the first private institution to join its Linkage Programme, which began in 1998. Over the years, the university has consistently prepared students for careers as Chartered Bankers, ensuring they are professionally and academically equipped before graduation. Prof. Olanrewaju commended the leadership of the university, led by Vice-Chancellor Prof. Ademola Tayo, for its dedication to educational excellence and professional development.
The project aligns with the “LEGACY Agenda” of Prof. Olanrewaju’s presidency, particularly focusing on competence, inclusivity, and youth empowerment. The “G” component of the agenda emphasizes generational, gender, and geographical inclusivity, ensuring that opportunities are accessible to all, regardless of location or background.
This initiative represents CIBN’s ninth legacy project in Nigerian tertiary institutions. Prof. Olanrewaju highlighted that the project symbolizes the institute’s dedication to the nation’s economic growth and its role in fostering talent within the banking and finance sector.
He further expressed gratitude to the CIBN family, including past presidents, council members, and stakeholders, for their unwavering support of the LEGACY agenda.
In closing, Prof. Olanrewaju quoted Malcolm X, stating, “Education is the passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for it today.” He reiterated CIBN’s commitment to preparing Nigerian youths for the future through initiatives like the Bankers Hall.
The CIBN Bankers Hall will serve as a lasting symbol of the partnership between the institute and Babcock University, further strengthening the bond between academia and the banking industry while contributing to the development of a vibrant financial sector in Nigeria.
