OOU strengthens collaboration with CBN for enhanced service delivery

The Department of Banking and Finance, Olabisi Onabanjo University, has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening academic–industry collaboration with the Central Bank of Nigeria for enhanced service delivery.

The university, in a statement on Monday made available to our correspondent, reaffirmed the commitment during a recent visit to the Abeokuta branch of the bank.

The visit was said to be aimed at deepening engagement between the university and the nation’s apex financial regulatory institution, while enhancing the practical knowledge and professional exposure of academic staff in the rapidly evolving financial sector.

The delegation, led by the Director of OOU Business School, Professor Bamidele Ilo, also included the Head of Department of Banking and Finance, Dr James Obadeyemi; Dr Ganiyu Yinusa, the OOU ASUU Chairman; Dr T. O. Agbatogun; Dr S. K. Belau; Mr O. E. Olowofela; Dr R. A. Folami; Dr M. E. Ariyibi; and Dr O. Babalola.

The delegation was reportedly received by the Branch Controller, Mr Malik Ademola, and members of the CBN Abeokuta Branch management team.

Speaking during the engagement, Prof Ilo emphasised the importance of stronger linkages between universities and financial-sector institutions in ensuring that academic research and teaching remain responsive to developments in the economy and the financial system.

He explained that, “This visit also aims to explore opportunities for research collaboration, policy dialogue, knowledge sharing, staff development, guest lectures, seminars, joint publications and other academic and professional initiatives.

“It is believed that sustained engagement with institutions such as the CBN would contribute to bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and professional practice, while providing academic staff and students with greater exposure to real-world developments in banking and finance.”

He expressed optimism that the visit would serve as a foundation for deeper institutional collaboration between the university and the CBN, particularly in the areas of financial-sector research, capacity building, knowledge exchange and professional development.

The visit concluded on a positive note, with both parties recognising the mutual benefits of continued engagement and the importance of strengthening university–industry partnerships for the advancement of Nigeria’s financial system and economic development.

The engagement further reinforced OOU’s commitment to building strategic partnerships with key institutions and stakeholders whose expertise and experience can contribute to the university’s teaching, research and community-development mandate.