Professor Pius Olanrewaju Sworn in as 23rd President of Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria
Professor Pius Olanrewaju has been inaugurated as the 23rd President and Chairman of the Council of the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN). The swearing-in ceremony was conducted by Justice Owolabi Dabiri and chaired by Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Wole Olanipekun, at a distinguished event in Lagos on Friday.
Following his oath of office, Professor Olanrewaju was adorned with the official insignia, symbolising his new role. The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, represented by the Chairman of the House Committee on Banking, Nwachukwu Eze, commended the outgoing CIBN president, Ken Opara. Abbas highlighted the necessity for the new leadership to embrace technological advancements to enhance financial inclusion.
“Today, as you welcome the incoming President and new Chairman of the Council, we also reflect on the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead,” Abbas stated. “The banking sector is constantly evolving, driven by technological advancements, regulatory changes, and shifts in customer behaviour. The CIBN must remain steadfast in its commitment to excellence and innovation. The incoming leadership must embrace new ideas and emerging technologies and foster collaboration within the industry to navigate these challenges and seize the opportunities that lie ahead.
“As we look to the future, we must not lose sight of the importance of financial inclusion and sustainable development. Despite progress in expanding access to financial services, millions of Nigerians remain excluded from the formal banking sector. It is incumbent upon all stakeholders, including the CIBN, to redouble efforts to promote financial literacy, expand access to finance, and foster inclusive growth that leaves no one behind.”
Additionally, Bello Hassan, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation, emphasised the importance of cybersecurity in the banking sector. “A deliberate and collaborative approach to cyber risk involving all stakeholders is essential to protect the resilience of the banking system,” Hassan remarked.
Other elected officeholders include First Vice President Dele Alake, Second Vice President Mojisola Bakare-Asieru, and National Treasurer Peter Ashade. Professor Olanrewaju was elected to his new position on April 6, 2024.
