CIBN partners James Hope University, LIMBSimple to enhance entrepreneurial training
The Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN) has entered into a strategic collaboration with James Hope University and LIMBSimple Company Ltd. to drive inclusive growth through enterprise development within the country’s banking and finance ecosystem.
The partnership was officially cemented on Thursday with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at the Bankers House in Lagos.
Speaking at the event, CIBN President, Professor Pius Olanrewaju, stated that the alliance was designed to foster academic distinction, professional advancement, and entrepreneurial capacity within the financial services industry.
He explained that the agreement would launch the CIBN’s MSc Finance and Chartered Banker (ACIB) linkage programme, enabling participants to earn both a Master’s degree and a professional certification simultaneously.
“This dual-qualification framework is a tailored Nigerian version of the globally respected Chartered Banker MBA (CBMBA), which was originally delivered through a partnership between Bangor Business School and the Chartered Banker Institute in Scotland,” Olanrewaju said.
He added that the partnership with LIMBSimple Company Ltd. would further equip professionals, budding entrepreneurs, and retired bankers with formal entrepreneurial training.
“This initiative will provide SME clinics, broaden access to finance, connect learners with global knowledge platforms, and offer extensive mentorship support,” he explained.
Expressing enthusiasm about the new collaboration, Olanrewaju described the linkage programme as a progressive initiative that allows students and banking practitioners to earn an MSc degree alongside the ACIB professional designation.
He noted that the concept of integrating the ACIB linkage into postgraduate education was first developed in 2015.
“With the signing today, James Hope University becomes the 13th institution in Nigeria to join the prestigious group of universities participating in the MSc, MBF, and MBA ACIB linkage programmes,” he said.
The CIBN President further remarked that the programme aligns with the “Y” component of the LEGACY Agenda, which concentrates on youth empowerment and entrepreneurial engagement.
“These two agreements we are signing today reflect our wider institutional strategy to nurture a dynamic, inclusive, and innovative financial system in Nigeria.
“This is a vision firmly embedded in my LEGACY Agenda as the 23rd President and Chairman of Council of the Institute.
“Let us advance together, forging a future where academic excellence, professional qualification, and entrepreneurial resilience are not only valued but attainable for all,” Olanrewaju added.
Acting Vice Chancellor of James Hope University, Professor Abiola Babajide, expressed gratitude to CIBN for the opportunity to collaborate in furthering the university’s mission.
“James Hope University Business School was conceived as a forward-thinking postgraduate institution, committed to bridging critical skills gaps and addressing the pressing capacity needs in business, management, and the social sciences,” Babajide said.
“We understand the urgent demand for a new cadre of professionals — individuals who possess not only academic expertise but also the leadership acumen and innovative mindset necessary to transform the continent.”
She praised the CIBN for the partnership, describing the Business School as more than an academic institution.
“James Hope University Business School is a movement — one dedicated to excellence, visionary leadership, and Africa’s brighter future,” she said.
Also speaking at the event, Mr Ezekiel Solesi, Chief Executive Officer of LIMBSimple, recounted the company’s 15-year journey, during which it has delivered simplified, technical, and motivational content designed to enhance both lives and businesses.
Solesi said the collaboration with CIBN would further empower the over 4,500 businesses his firm has supported, especially in navigating funding access.
“On one hand, we’re contributing our technical knowledge to entrepreneurs within the CIBN community, guiding them on how to scale their businesses strategically,” he said.
“On the other, CIBN is offering us valuable access to top-tier banking professionals and financial avenues.
“They will be infusing their financial expertise into our ecosystem, preparing our members for real funding opportunities.
“This partnership represents a deliberate step in equipping our community to become fund-ready — and who better to lead that charge than the banker’s bank, the CIBN.
“They are uniquely positioned to connect us with the knowledge and the experts who can prepare our 4,500-strong network for meaningful engagement with the banking sector,” Solesi concluded.
