The Chairman of Polaris Bank, Dr Kassim Gidado, has issued a rallying cry to the newest generation of financial professionals, urging them to prioritise integrity, ethical conduct, and continuous learning as they navigate the complexities of Nigeria’s evolving financial sector.
Gidado delivered this charge while serving as the Special Guest of Honour at the 2026 Stream 1 Chartered Banker Induction Ceremony, hosted by the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria in Lagos.
The event celebrated the induction of 2,037 new professionals into the prestigious Chartered Banker and Microfinance Certified Banker cadres.
In his address, Gidado underscored the critical role that trust plays in the banking industry, particularly during an era defined by rapid technological advancement and changing regulatory landscapes.
“The financial services industry is undergoing profound transformation driven by technological innovation, evolving regulatory frameworks, and the increasing push for financial inclusion,” Gidado noted.
Despite these shifts, he insisted that the foundational pillars of the profession remain unchanged.
“Trust remains the cornerstone of banking,” he emphasised, adding that “the credibility and stability of financial institutions ultimately rest on the integrity and professionalism of the individuals who operate within the system.”
Drawing on his background in leadership and strategic development, Gidado highlighted the necessity of human capital as the ultimate driver of institutional success.
“At Polaris Bank, we view human capital as our most critical asset. Sustainable growth in banking will always depend on the quality, integrity and professionalism of the people who drive the system,” he stated.
He further challenged the inductees to view their new professional status as more than just a certificate, describing it as a commitment to a life of excellence.
He encouraged the new members of the Institute to anchor their careers on three core values: integrity, continuous learning, and purposeful leadership.
The ceremony, which brought together regulators, industry stalwarts, and seasoned practitioners, served as a reaffirmation of the importance of professional certification in maintaining confidence within Nigeria’s banking industry.
Gidado concluded by commending the CIBN for its sustained dedication to strengthening industry standards and building the next generation of competent, character-driven leaders.
