Alabi Emerges CIBN 24th President, Pledges Reform, Global Relevance
By Rashidat Olushola Okunlade
The Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN) has elected Dr. Dele Alabi as its 24th President/Chairman of Council, following its Annual General Meeting (AGM) and elections held on Saturday, March 28, 2026, in Lagos.
Dr. Alabi’s emergence marks a new phase in the Institute’s leadership, with a strong emphasis on integrity, professionalism, and innovation as pillars of his administration. Speaking shortly after the announcement, he described his election as a collective mandate rather than a personal achievement, pledging to position the banking profession as a critical driver of national development.
He also paid tribute to his predecessor, Pius Olanrewaju, commending his tenure for strengthening the Institute’s institutional and financial base.
Outlining his strategic direction, the new CIBN President stressed the need for the Institute to move beyond adapting to changes in the financial ecosystem and instead take a proactive role in shaping the future of banking. He assured members that his leadership would prioritise inclusiveness, uphold professional integrity, and advance the broader interests of the industry while enhancing the Institute’s local relevance and global visibility.
Dr. Alabi further announced that his investiture ceremony is scheduled for May 16, 2026, in Lagos, where he is expected to formally unveil his policy agenda. He called on members across Nigeria and in the diaspora to remain united in sustaining the Institute’s legacy of excellence.
In his valedictory remarks, Prof. Olanrewaju highlighted key achievements during his tenure, including significant growth in internally generated revenue, an increase of nearly 7,000 members, and the remodeling of the Institute’s national headquarters. He also noted the deployment of improved digital infrastructure, which enabled about 20,000 members to participate virtually in Institute activities.
Additional reforms under his leadership included enhancements to the examination system, with more frequent sittings and the introduction of a globally accessible proctored format.
The hybrid AGM and elections attracted wide participation from stakeholders across the banking industry, including top executives such as Oliver Alawuba of United Bank for Africa, Adaora Umeoji of Zenith Bank, and Miriam Olusanya of Guaranty Trust Bank, underscoring CIBN’s pivotal role in advancing professionalism and leadership within Nigeria’s banking sector.
In other election results, Dr. Mojisola Asieru-Sweet was elected as 1st Vice President, Dr. Peter Ashade as 2nd Vice President, and Dr. Haruna Musa as National Treasurer. Other members elected to the Governing Council include Abosede Ogundimu, Obafemi Omolola, Mary Akpenyi, and Adesina Joda.
