The initiative, announced at the inauguration of the institute’s new leadership, is expected to widen access for young professionals who aspire to build careers in securities and investment management but lack the financial backing to do so. The fund, according to the leadership, will serve as a long-term investment in human capital for the financial markets.
President of the CIS, Dr. Fiona Ahimie, who made history as the institute’s first female president, described the initiative as part of a broader transformation agenda aimed at reinforcing the institute’s role in Nigeria’s evolving financial ecosystem.
She explained that the institute is not only focusing on funding but also on institutional reforms that will expand its relevance beyond traditional boundaries.
“The relevance of our institute is not fixed by our past but determined by our collective courage in the present. We can and will strengthen our Institute, deepen participation in our profession, and expand across this nation,” Ahimie said.
Beyond the endowment plan, she outlined a five-point agenda that focuses on improving member engagement, enhancing the recognition of CIS certifications, expanding membership across Nigeria, strengthening regional integration beyond national borders, and ensuring long-term financial sustainability.
A key component of the strategy is a member engagement drive aimed at increasing participation of stockbrokers and investment professionals in policy conversations, industry forums, and broader stakeholder interactions. The goal, she noted, is to make professionals more visible and influential in shaping capital market direction.
She also emphasized geographic expansion, noting that the institute intends to extend its footprint beyond Lagos and Abuja by building stronger regional structures and establishing additional district societies across the country.
Ahimie also paid tribute to outgoing leadership, praising Mr. Oluropo Dada for what she described as a tenure that strengthened internal collaboration and elevated the institute’s profile. Dada now assumes the role of Immediate Past President (IPP).
The leadership transition also brought in Dr. Akeem Oyewale as First Vice President and Mr. Jude Chiemeka as Second Vice President, completing the new executive structure tasked with driving the reform agenda.
The inauguration ceremony drew a wide range of dignitaries from government, finance, and industry, reflecting the institute’s central role in Nigeria’s capital market architecture.
Goodwill messages were delivered by several high-profile figures, including Kashim Shettima, represented by Dr. Tope Fasua, alongside Abiodun Oyebanji and Opeyemi Bamidele.
Others included Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, Osita Izunaso, and financial sector stakeholders such as Emomotimi Agama.
Also present were Ndi Okereke-Onyuike, Sehinde Adenagbe, and Aisha Babangida, alongside other industry leaders, traditional rulers, and invited guests.
In her remarks, Ahimie framed the new direction as both a continuity effort and a bold expansion of ambition for the institute, signaling a stronger push toward inclusiveness, regional reach, and global competitiveness for Nigeria’s capital market profession.