Speaking at a press briefing in Lagos, CIBN President Prof. Pius Olanrewaju said the flagship event, expected to draw over 10,000 participants from across the globe, will explore the convergence of banking, policy, and technology under the theme, “The New Economic Playbook: The Intersection of Banking, Policy and Technology.”
“In line with our mandate to consistently build the capacity of banking and finance professionals, the Institute is set to host the 18th annual Banking and Finance Conference, reputed to be the largest gathering of banking and finance professionals in Africa,” Prof. Olanrewaju stated. He added that the previous edition of the conference was the most trending global event on the day it was held and promised that this year’s edition, supported by regulators, supervisors, and partners, will be equally grand.
The conference serves as a platform for policymakers, regulators, financial operators, academics, clients, and other stakeholders in the banking and finance ecosystem to deliberate on critical developments within the sector and the broader economy.
Mariam Olusanya, Chair of the Consultative Committee and Group Managing Director of Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc, emphasized that the 2025 conference will address the realities of digital currencies, AI-driven systems, embedded finance, and the necessity for new operational models amid evolving geopolitical and economic dynamics.
“The economic assumptions of the past continue to be challenged, creating a need for continuously evolving operational frameworks. We will convene the most respected voices in finance, technology, and policy to provide local, regional, and global perspectives,” Olusanya said.
The conference will feature three major business sessions: Unlocking Nigeria’s Economic Potential, Adapting to Global Shocks, and Navigating the AI Revolution. According to CIBN, the event aims to strengthen dialogue between policymakers, regulators, and private sector leaders, while inspiring actionable ideas for the financial services industry.