The Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria is set to donate a 160-seater multimedia lecture theatre to Babcock University, Ilisan Remo, Ogun State.
The president of CIBN, Prof. Pius Olanrewaju, during the groundbreaking ceremony for the building scheduled for completion in three months, said that the institute will continue to prioritise initiatives tailored towards enhancing professionalism, capacity building, and excellence in the banking industry.
Olanrewaju also revealed that recent research by the CIBN indicated that between 70 and 75 per cent of new applicants for banking jobs in the country for the past five years are from private universities. The CIBN boss explained that this goes to show that private universities deserve to be supported to continue to contribute excellently to the development of the banking industry in the country.
He added that the Adventist university holds a special place in the heart of CIBN, having been the first private university to embrace its linkage programme and that this has helped their students to become Chartered Bankers, preparing them for excellent careers long before their graduation.
Olanrewaju, who is also a former provost of the School of Law and Security of the university, said, “We are also doing this to further support the private universities in the country.
“Private universities seem to have been neglected in the country, and when the CIBN carried out a small research project, we found out that for the past five years, between 70 and 75 per cent of recruits for banks are from the private universities, the likes of Babcock, Covenant, and so on.”
He explained that the legacy project to be known as CIBN Bankers Hall will not only serve as a physical edifice but also as a centre for learning, innovation, and excellence for both students and faculty.
Olanrewaju said, “Distinguished audience, the legacy project being endowed to Babcock University by The Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria is a fully furnished 160-seater lecture theatre. This structure, to be officially named “The CIBN Bankers’ Hall,” will serve as a hub for the training and growth of aspiring bankers.
“This enduring legacy project signifies our commitment to enhancing banking and finance education in Nigeria and reflects our steadfast backing for the overall economic progress of our nation.”.
Speaking at the event, the Vice-Chancellor of the university, Prof. Ademola Tayo, said the CIBN’s commitment to the project underscores its dedication to advancing the banking profession, promoting financial literacy, and shaping the future of the financial services sector.
He disclosed that the university has always maintained a strong bond with CIBN, having produced two of its past presidents, while the incumbent is also from the university.
He added, “This Legacy Project Banking Hall will not only enhance our university’s infrastructure but also provide a hub for research, learning, and collaboration. It will serve as a testament to the power of partnerships and the impact of collective efforts. This project demonstrates our university’s commitment to providing our students with a world-class education, equipping them with the knowledge, skills, and competencies required to excel in an increasingly complex and interconnected world.”
