The President and Chairman of Council of The Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN), Professor Pius Deji Olanrewaju, Ph.D., FCIB, has urged financial institutions to embrace a new era of technology-driven transformation, ethical leadership, and collaborative innovation to sustain Nigeria’s economic growth and global competitiveness.
He made this passionate call during the 2025 CIBN Fellowship Investiture Ceremony held on Saturday, November 1, 2025, at the Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and the Creative Arts, National Theatre, Iganmu, Lagos, themed “Banking Beyond Boundaries: Leveraging Technological Innovations for Enhanced Performance in the Nigerian Banking Industry.”
Celebrating Excellence and Leadership
In his welcome address, Prof. Olanrewaju described the Investiture as one of the most prestigious annual events in the Institute’s calendar, celebrating individuals who have distinguished themselves through professional excellence, ethical conduct, and contributions to the banking and finance ecosystem.
This year’s ceremony honoured a total of 687 distinguished individuals — comprising 21 Honorary Fellows, 440 Elected Fellows, and 225 Honorary Senior Members (HCIB) — recognised for their outstanding impact on the Nigerian economy and the financial services landscape.
“Your elevation today is not just an award,” the CIBN President declared, “it is a recognition of your dedication as torchbearers of innovation, integrity, and professionalism in the banking sector.”
He extended heartfelt congratulations to all honourees and thanked guests for their unwavering support for the Institute’s mission of strengthening banking professionalism and advancing human capital development across the country.
Notable Dignitaries and Inspirational Guests
The 2025 Investiture attracted an array of eminent personalities from the public and private sectors. In attendance was Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, FCIB, the Governor of Lagos State, described by Prof. Olanrewaju as “a visionary leader and champion of sustainable development.”
Also present was Mallam Dikko Umar Radda, Ph.D., CON, the Governor of Katsina State, represented by His Excellency Faruk Lawal Jobe, HCIB, the Deputy Governor of Katsina State.
The event’s Guest Speaker, Dr. Iyinoluwa Aboyeji, Chief Executive Officer of Future Africa and Co-Founder of Andela, delivered a keynote address that aligned perfectly with the theme, highlighting the transformative potential of technology in redefining financial services, job creation, and inclusion across Africa.
Driving Innovation: Banking Beyond Boundaries
In his keynote remarks, Prof. Olanrewaju noted that Nigerian banks have evolved from traditional operations to digital ecosystems, connecting millions of individuals and enterprises across multiple platforms.
He revealed that electronic payment transactions reached ₦384 trillion in July 2025, while mobile and PoS payments grew by over 200% year-on-year, signalling the rapid adoption of digital banking channels that enhance financial inclusion and operational efficiency.
According to him, recent developments — including the recapitalisation exercise, regulatory reforms, and Nigeria’s exit from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list — have further strengthened investor confidence, international reputation, and the resilience of the financial sector.
“These milestones mark a defining moment in our journey toward transparency, innovation, and financial integrity,” he said. “Nigeria’s banking industry is now positioned as a major engine for sustainable growth and regional leadership.”
Commending the CBN and Banks’ Contributions
The CIBN President commended the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and financial institutions for their steadfast efforts in stabilising the economy amid global challenges.
He highlighted that the CBN’s proactive monetary and regulatory policies have attracted foreign direct investment (FDI), boosted confidence, and supported critical sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, technology, and small businesses.
He noted that Nigeria’s GDP growth rate of 4.23% as of Q2 2025 underscores the sector’s contribution to national development and economic diversification.
“Our banking sector remains the bedrock of Nigeria’s economic resilience,” Prof. Olanrewaju stated. “It continues to empower citizens, fund innovation, and promote inclusive growth through technology.”
Human Capital Development: The Next Frontier
Prof. Olanrewaju announced a bold new initiative by the CIBN to tackle the growing talent gap in Nigeria’s financial industry, caused by migration and the changing skill requirements of digital banking.
He revealed that the Institute, in partnership with the Body of Banks’ CEOs, has launched the Human Capital Development Fund (HCDF) to finance training for young professionals and upskill existing staff.
Additionally, the Institute’s Banking School Project will serve as a talent incubator, equipping professionals with future-ready competencies in fintech, cybersecurity, risk management, and sustainable finance.
“We are building the next generation of bankers,” he said, “professionals who will not only lead Nigeria’s digital transformation but also uphold the highest ethical and professional standards in global banking.”
He urged all stakeholders — banks, regulators, and development partners — to support this initiative and help reposition Nigeria as Africa’s financial talent hub.
Looking Ahead: Collaboration and Integrity
In his closing remarks, Prof. Olanrewaju called for greater collaboration between the CBN, banks, and government institutions to deepen financial inclusion, enhance transparency, and expand credit access to sectors that stimulate employment and national productivity.
He emphasized that public-private partnerships would play a vital role in building infrastructure, fostering innovation, and promoting sustainable development.
Quoting former U.S. President John F. Kennedy, he reminded the audience that “Change is the law of life. And those who look only to the past or present are certain to miss the future.”
“Let us, therefore, embrace change with courage,” he concluded. “Let us shape the future of banking through innovation, integrity, and collaboration for the prosperity of our nation and generations to come.”
CIBN President, Prof. Pius Deji Olanrewaju, calls for a tech-driven revolution in Nigeria’s banking industry, honours 687 professionals, and unveils the Human Capital Development Fund at the 2025 Fellowship Investiture in Lagos.
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