The Deputy Vice-Chancellor Administration of the University of Ibadan, Professor Peter O. Olapegba, fspsp, FNPA, has commended the Central Bank of Nigeria for being a forward-looking organisation through its vision, generosity, unwavering support for the Nigerian education system and innovations that will shape the future of the country.
Professor Olapegba made these remarks on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Kayode Oyebode Adebowale, mni, FAS, fspsp, at the handing over of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Centre of Excellence for Economics and Finance' building to the University of Ibadan.
According to the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Administration, the occasion of the handing-over marks a significant milestone in the partnership between the Central Bank of Nigeria and UI, saying the Centre of Excellence is a testament of shared commitment to advancing education, fostering research and contributing to the economic development of Nigeria.
Prof. Olapegba said the state-of-the-art facilities in the building will enhance the learning experience of students, equip them with knowledge and skills, and produce a conducive environment for ground-breaking research in the fields of economics and finance.
He assured that the University of Ibadan will build on the existing structures and values of the CBN Centre for Excellence for Economics and Finance.
A Deputy Director at the Central Bank of Nigeria, Dr. Eme A. Dada said the Centre of Excellence later renamed the Centre for Economics and Finance (CENEF) is to house the bank's collaborative postgraduate programmes (CBN-CPP) in accounting, banking and finance, economics and business administration.
Dr. Dada, an alumna of the University of Ibadan, urged the University to use the edifice for the purpose it was built, saying that other Nigerian universities had also benefitted from the magnanimity of the CBN.
The Central Bank of Nigeria, Ibadan Branch Controller, speaking through an Assistant Director, Mr. Ajikan Isaac said the establishment of the Centre of Excellence for the University was for the facilitation of adequate and skilled manpower for the financial system in line with the financial system strategy 2020 (FSS 2020).
He advised that the structure be used in accordance with the agreement between the bank and the university.
The Dean, Faculty of Economics and Management Sciences, Professor A. O. Folawewo appreciated the Central Bank of Nigeria for the strategic partnership with the institution and the official handing over of the edifice.
He encouraged the Central Bank of Nigeria to continue with its innovation, support, and intervention not only to the education system but also to other sectors of the national economy.
In a goodwill message, the Dean of Students, Prof. Keye Abiona thanked the CBN for the donation, saying that it will go a long way to enrich the students' learning experiences.
The handing over notes were duly signed by the representatives of both the University of Ibadan and the Central Bank of Nigeria.
The CENEF building complex features large lecture theatres, lecture halls, a library, staff offices, and kitchenettes.
The package also came with a student hostel.
The University of Ibadan and the CBN had in 2019 entered into an Agreement to establish a Centre of Excellence in the University for the facilitation of adequate and skilled manpowerfor the Nigerian financial system.
Directorate of Public Communication
