CIBN, Lagos Gov’t to strengthen collaboration for SME growth
The Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN) has called for a stronger collaboration with the Lagos State Government to boost Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprise (MSME) growth, financial inclusion, and banking innovation.
The President and Chairman of the Council of the CIBN, Dr. Dele Alabi, made the call during a courtesy visit to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu at Lagos House, Alausa, Ikeja.
The announcement was detailed in a statement by Mr. Taofik Sanni, CIBN’s Acting Head of Corporate Communications and Brand Management.
Dr. Alabi emphasized that enhanced collaboration among the CIBN, commercial banks, and the Lagos State Government would support MSMEs through capacity development, financial inclusion, and improved access to credit.
Describing MSMEs as the engine of economic growth, the CIBN president advocated for the establishment of dedicated MSME hubs in strategic locations across the state to drive enterprise development, innovation, and inclusive growth.
Dr. Alabi also unveiled plans to transform the Institute’s Learning Centre in Yaba into a modern Digital Learning Resource Centre and Innovation Hub.
He stated that the proposed facility would feature digital learning infrastructure, simulation laboratories, virtual classrooms, and collaborative spaces designed for banking professionals, fintech firms, researchers, and technology partners.
He noted that the project aligns with the “Technology, Automation, and Innovation” pillar of the CIBN’s broader IMPACT Vision.
Commending Governor Sanwo-Olu’s administration for fostering an environment conducive to financial services, entrepreneurship, and broader economic development, Dr. Alabi highlighted the high importance the Institute places on the partnership.
The CIBN delegation included members of its Governing Council, the Body of Past Presidents, and senior executive management.
During the visit, the delegation formally invited Governor Sanwo-Olu to several upcoming flagship events, including the Generation Next Forum 4.0 on August 12, the 19th Annual Banking and Finance Conference on September 8 and 9, and the Institute’s 61st Annual Bankers’ Dinner scheduled for November 27.
Dr. Alabi expressed confidence that the strategic engagement would strengthen professional excellence, banking innovation, and sustainable economic growth.
He reaffirmed the CIBN’s commitment to deepening partnerships across government entities, regulatory bodies, financial institutions, academia, and the broader innovation ecosystem.
In response, Governor Sanwo-Olu described the meeting as a reaffirmation of the enduring relationship between Lagos State and the banking profession.
“Our financial sector remains the backbone of economic growth across Lagos, and strong partnerships with professional institutions like the CIBN are essential,” Sanwo-Olu said.
The governor assured the delegation that the state government would continue to create an enabling environment for financial institutions to thrive and serve the public effectively.