Leading figures in the global banking and finance sectors are set to converge in London from April 24-26, 2025, for the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN) 2025 London International Banking and Finance Conference. The event, hosted at the Hilton London Canary Wharf, will address the critical issue of enhancing forex liquidity through strategic export diversification, with a focus on the banking sector’s pivotal role.
Organized by the CIBN in collaboration with its UK Branch, the conference aims to provide a platform for policymakers, regulators, and industry experts to share insights and formulate solutions to contemporary economic challenges. The central theme, “Enhancing Forex Liquidity Through Export Diversification: The Role of the Banking Sector,” underscores the urgent need to move away from over-reliance on oil revenues and secure a sustainable economic future.
“This conference is designed to be a catalyst for change,” stated Mr. Bayo Fagbenro, Chairman of the Organising Committee and 1st Vice Chairman of the CIBN UK Branch. “We are bringing together the brightest minds to address one of the most pressing issues facing our economies today.”
The conference boasts an impressive lineup of speakers, including:
- Mr. Clive Carpenter, FCIB, C.Dir, Chairman, Longitude Capital Limited (Kenya).
- Mr. Hassan Bello, FCIB, Managing Director/CEO, Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC).
- Mrs. Nonye Ayeni, HCIB, Executive Director/CEO, Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC).
- Mr. Emmanuel Emefienim, CON, FCIB, MD/CEO, Premium Trust Bank.
- Mr. Yemi Cardoso, FCIB, Governor, Central Bank of Nigeria.
- Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, FCIB, Executive Governor, Lagos State.
- Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, HCIB, Executive Governor, Cross River State.
The agenda is structured to provide comprehensive insights and practical solutions. Day one will feature a special training session in collaboration with Grant Thornton UK, covering crucial topics such as cyber and digital risks, regulatory compliance, governance, and the impact of Artificial Intelligence in financial services. Bank CEOs will also participate in a roundtable discussion. Day two will delve into the banking sector’s role in financing export-oriented industries and leveraging digital platforms for efficient export financing.
The conference will conclude with a guided sightseeing tour of London’s financial district and a gala dinner, where Mr. Clive Carpenter will deliver a keynote address on “The Future of Banking—Rapid Transformation or Obsolescence?”
According to the CIBN, resolutions from the conference will be shared with relevant stakeholders and policymakers to drive strategic realignment. This initiative reflects the institute’s commitment to fostering a robust and sustainable financial ecosystem.
“We are aiming for a paradigm shift,” Prof. Pius ‘Deji Olanrewaju, Ph.D, FCIB, President/Chairman of Council, CIBN explains. “This year we are focused on enhancing the quality of knowledge shared, to ensure participants gain a deeper understanding of these critical topics.”
The event is expected to draw a large audience from Nigeria, the UK, and other countries. Interested participants are encouraged to register through the official website: http://ukbranch.cibng.org/
