The Department of Banking and Finance, Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU), has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening academic–industry collaboration with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). The move followed a recent visit by a delegation from the university to the CBN Abeokuta Branch. Here are five key things to know about the engagement:
1. The Visit Was Aimed at Deepening University–Industry Engagement
According to the university, the visit was designed to strengthen ties between OOU and Nigeria’s apex financial institution. It also sought to expose academic staff to current developments in the banking and financial sector, helping them better understand the realities shaping the industry.
2. OOU Wants to Bridge the Gap Between Theory and Practice
Speaking during the engagement, the Director of OOU Business School, Prof. Bamidele Ilo, stressed the need for stronger collaboration between universities and financial-sector institutions. He noted that such partnerships would help ensure that teaching and research remain relevant to developments in the economy and financial system.
3. Research and Knowledge Sharing Are Key Areas of Interest
The university said it is exploring opportunities for research collaboration, policy dialogue, knowledge sharing, staff development, guest lectures, seminars and joint publications. These initiatives are expected to strengthen academic capacity while encouraging practical engagement with industry experts.
4. Students and Staff Could Benefit from Greater Professional Exposure
OOU believes sustained engagement with the CBN and similar institutions will provide academic staff and students with deeper insights into real-world banking and finance operations. The collaboration is also expected to support capacity building and professional development.
5. Both Institutions See Long-Term Benefits in the Partnership
The visit ended with both parties acknowledging the value of continued collaboration. OOU expressed optimism that the engagement would lay the foundation for deeper cooperation in financial-sector research, knowledge exchange and professional development, while contributing to Nigeria’s broader economic development goals.
The OOU delegation was led by the Director of OOU Business School, Prof. Bamidele Ilo, and included the Head of Department of Banking and Finance, Dr. James Obadeyemi, alongside other academic staff. They were received by the Branch Controller of the CBN Abeokuta Branch, Mr. Malik Ademola, and members of the bank’s management team.
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