By Emiola Shukroh
Corporate Bankers Association of The Polytechnic, Ibadan Chapter, on Wednesday, February 12, organised its annual symposium themed “Banking in the Age of Fintech” at the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN) Bankers’ Hall.
The event was held under the leadership of the Chief Banker, Adisa David Adeolu, and attracted lecturers, banking professionals, student leaders, and members of the association.
The programme commenced with an opening session anchored by the host, Olabosinde Israel, alongside his co-host, Alade Omotayo, who welcomed participants and dignitaries.
In his opening remarks, Chief Banker Adisa David Adeolu noted that the symposium was organised to enable students to learn, gain inspiration, and network with professionals in the banking industry, He also expressed appreciation to the guests, lecturers, and students for their presence.
Among the dignitaries present were Dr. (Mrs.) Oriyomi Adenuga, Mr. Olusegun Babalola, Miss Mary Titilope Fabuyi, Mr. Ogunyemi Akinbusayo, Mr. Friday Ifeanyi, Mrs. Olalekan, Dr. Ajibike, Head of the Department of Banking and Finance, Comrade Teslim Olusimi, Special Adviser to the Governor, as well as other student leaders.
Delivering the first keynote address, Dr. (Mrs.) Oriyomi Adenuga spoke extensively on the symposium’s theme, She described bankers as custodians of integrity and urged students to uphold ethical standards and serve as ambassadors of integrity in the profession, She also explained that fintech companies have gained strength through collaboration with traditional banks, adding that fintech firms are relevant in Nigeria because they offer affordable services, cash-back incentives, and innovative solutions to local banking challenges.
Dr. Adenuga further encouraged students of Banking and Finance to conduct in-depth research in the field, particularly in emerging areas such as robotic banking and artificial intelligence, She advised students to study the founders and business models of fintech companies such as Opay, Moniepoint, and Kuda, noting that such knowledge would be beneficial for their future careers.
The second speaker, Mr. Friday, reinforced the points made by the first speaker, stating that banks are continually adapting to technological changes, no matter how minimal.
He noted that many banks now have fintech desks, offices, and departments. At the end of his presentation, he awarded ₦10,000 to one of the inductees, Gbadamosi Oluwakitan, and offered her an opportunity to work with FCMB in the future.
Former CIBN Chairman, Alhaji Omotosho, advised students to apply the lessons shared by the speakers to enhance their prospects in the banking industry. He also donated ₦50,000 to support the Corporate Bankers Association.
In her remarks, the Head of the Department of Banking and Finance, Dr. Ajibike, expressed gratitude to all guests and stakeholders for their continued support of the department and the association.
During a panel session, speakers including Mr. Ajayi, Miss Mary Titilope Fabuyi, Mr. Ogunyemi Akinbusayo, and Mr. Olusegun Babalola discussed why academic degrees no longer guarantee employment and highlighted the skills and mindset students must develop to remain competitive.
The event climaxed with the induction of intending members into the association, during which they took the official oath.
The symposium concluded with the sharing of refreshments among participants.
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