The Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN) has formally inducted 1,242 accomplished professionals into the prestigious ranks of Chartered Bankers at its 2025 Stream Two Induction Ceremony held on Saturday, August 30.
In his welcome address, President and Chairman of Council, Prof. Pius Deji Olanrewaju, Ph.D, FCIB, hailed the ceremony as a pivotal milestone that celebrates hard work, discipline, and dedication. He described the induction as more than ceremonial, affirming it as recognition of the inductees’ successful navigation of the rigorous standards of the banking profession.
A total of 923 professionals were inducted as Chartered Bankers through various routes, while 319 Microfinance Certified Professionals were also inducted.
Themed “The Smart Banker’s Compass: Innovate, Adapt, and Solve Like a Pro,” the event emphasized the urgency for bankers to thrive amidst technological evolution and global economic shifts.
Prof. Olanrewaju urged the inductees to embrace adaptability and continuous learning, stating that the most resilient professionals are those who evolve with the times. He also charged the new inductees to uphold the core values of integrity, professionalism, and excellence that define the CIBN.
In her remarks, Lady (Dr.) Ada Chukwudozie, Chairperson, Keystone Bank Ltd, expressed pride in having 14 of her staff among the new Chartered Bankers. She emphasized the importance of meeting customer demands for faster, simpler, and safer financial services, which can be achieved through digital platforms and fintech innovations.
Dr. Jameelah Sharrieff-Ayedun, MD/CEO of Credit Registry, highlighted key traits essential for navigating the modern financial world. She urged inductees to remain adaptable, build strong networks, and uphold transparency and ethical conduct. According to her, financial institutions with strong ethical reputations achieve 26% higher customer trust scores.
Message for the Chartered Bankers
The industry leaders left the inductees with a unified message: success in banking today requires not only technical competence but agility, innovation, and ethical leadership. They charged the new Chartered Bankers to become visionary stewards of the profession—innovating, adapting, and solving challenges like true professionals.