By: Peace Udugba.
Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN) has donated a fully digitalized 160-seater lecture theatre, named the “CIBN Bankers Hall,” to Babcock University in Ilishan-Remo, Ogun State. This initiative marks the first time CIBN is endowing a private university with such a facility, underscoring its commitment to enhancing banking and finance education in Nigeria.
The President and Chairman of Council of (CIBN), Prof. Pius Deji Olanrewaju, stated that the project reflects the Institute’s unwavering commitment to excellence, inclusivity, and industry-readiness within Nigeria’s financial services sector.
Speaking at the commissioning, Prof. Olanrewaju described the fully furnished and equipped facility as a legacy project, purposefully designed to serve as a centre of excellence for teaching and learning.
He added that the initiative is aimed at inspiring future generations of finance and banking professionals across the country.
The commissioning of this hall goes beyond a construction milestone; it marks the beginning of a more dynamic academic journey. It will serve as a hub where ideas are cultivated, skills are sharpened, and tomorrow’s leaders are prepared for the evolving landscape of banking and finance,” he said.
Prof. Olanrewaju also noted that Babcock University was the first private institution to join the CIBN Linkage Programme and has consistently produced graduates who are not only academically sound but also professionally certified prior to graduation.
He praised the leadership of the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Ademola Tayo, for supporting the project and for sustaining the collaboration between Babcock University and CIBN in shaping the future of the banking profession.
He also acknowledged the contributions of past presidents of the Institute, members of the Legacy Team, and council members for their visionary support.
The CIBN President urged students to make the most of the facility by fostering curiosity, innovation, and professionalism in their academic pursuits.
“This hall is a passport to the future, preparing leaders for tomorrow’s financial system. It stands as a testament to what academia and industry can achieve through effective collaboration,” he said.
In response, the President/Vice-Chancellor of Babcock University, Prof. Ademola Tayo, expressed deep gratitude to the Institute. He remarked, “This is not merely the dedication of a building; it is the celebration of a vision, a testament to an enduring partnership, and a symbol of the Institute’s unwavering commitment to advancing knowledge and nurturing the next generation of leaders in the banking and financial services industry.
This is a responsibility we accept with humility and a renewed commitment to utilize this facility as a hub for innovation, research, and professional development in banking and finance,” Prof. Tayo stated.
He added that the hall would not only host lectures, seminars, and professional engagements but also stand as a constant reminder to students that integrity, discipline, and service are the foundations for sustainable success in the financial services industry.
The CIBN President officially handed over the facility to Babcock University on behalf of the Institute, expressing hope that it would serve the university community and contribute meaningfully to the advancement of Nigeria’s banking and finance sector.
