In a remarkable display of academic prowess and ethical commitment, Team Unilag from the University of Lagos has emerged victorious in the 2024 University Ethics Challenge Competition, organized by the Chartered Financial Analyst, CFA Society in collaboration with First Bank Nigeria. The competition aimed to promote sustainability and uphold high standards of professionalism within Nigeria’s financial system.
The event showcased 28 universities from across the nation, eventually narrowing down to eight finalists, which included notable institutions such as the University of Lagos, UNILAG; University of Ibadan, UI; Obafemi Awolowo University, OAU; Lagos State University, LASU; Covenant University; Madonna University; University of Ilorin, UI; and Federal University of Technology, FUTO, Owerri.
CFA’s Deputy Director, Mr. Yemi Ajagun, who spearheaded the initiative, emphasised the significance of ethics in finance, stating, “Ethics is at the core of what we do at CFA Society of Nigeria. We aim to instill ethical and professional conduct among students aspiring to enter the industry.”
To ensure fair competition, teams were formed from investment clubs established in various universities, comprising two males and two females, supported by a faculty advisor. Ajagun elaborated on this selection process, mentioning, “We are establishing investment clubs across Nigerian universities. Members of these clubs participate in this challenge, helping to equip them with the skills needed for their future careers.”
The competition not only offered prizes but also focused on enriching participants with valuable knowledge, exposure, and confidence. “The ultimate goal is for these students to be well-prepared professionals by the time they enter the workforce,” CFA’s Deputy Director added.
Thomas Akinleko, who represented the CEO of First Bank Nigeria, Olusegun Alebiosu, highlighted the bank’s commitment to fostering sustainability in education and financial literacy. “For over 130 years, First Bank has promoted sustainability in entrepreneurship, professionalism, education, and financial literacy. By partnering with the CFA Society of Nigeria, we aim to equip students with the ethical framework necessary to navigate the complexities of the financial sector,” he stated.
After the competition, the University of Lagos took home the top prize, while Obafemi Awolowo University and Covenant University secured second and third places, respectively. In the category of best speakers, Isaac Ojugbana from Covenant University was awarded first place, followed by Idongesit Daniel of the University of Lagos and Olamide Lasisi from the University of Ibadan.
