The University of Lagos has emerged as the winner of the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) Society Nigeria Ethics Challenge, while Obafemi Awolowo University (Osun State) and Covenant University (Ogun State) claimed the second and third positions, respectively.
Sponsored primarily by First Bank of Nigeria, the annual competition featured a record 28 universities in its 2024 edition. Eight institutions made it to the finals in Lagos, including UNILAG, OAU, Covenant University, Madonna University, Lagos State University, University of Ilorin, University of Ibadan, and the Federal University of Technology, Owerri.
According to Ibukun Oyedeji, President of CFA Society Nigeria, the contest involves teams of four students analyzing a real-world case containing ethical dilemmas. The students apply principles from the CFA Institute Code of Ethics and Standards of Professional Conduct to present solutions, which are scored by a panel of judges.
“This event equips students with real-world experience, expands their understanding of ethical principles, and provides opportunities to network with top investment professionals,” Oyedeji said.
She added that the competition, now in its seventh year, aims to instill ethical values in future financial professionals, ensuring they have the moral compass necessary to make sound decisions. The initiative also seeks to bridge the gap between academic learning and professional practice.
Sheyi Shetan, Group Head of Financial Institutions and Multilaterals at First Bank of Nigeria, emphasized the bank’s commitment to fostering ethical decision-making in future leaders. “First Bank, as Nigeria’s oldest financial institution, sees it as a responsibility to instill ethical values in the next generation,” Shetan noted.
Deputy Director of CFA Society Nigeria, Yemi Ajagun, reiterated the importance of ethics in professional excellence, emphasizing that technical expertise cannot substitute integrity. Ajagun highlighted the collaboration between academia and industry, which the competition fosters, as essential to preparing students for the realities of the workforce.
The competition not only awards financial prizes but also imparts invaluable knowledge and confidence to participants. It has grown significantly, from just two participating universities at its inception to 28 universities in 2024.
CFA Society Nigeria plans to continue expanding its reach, establishing investment clubs in universities nationwide, and equipping students with the tools needed to thrive in their careers.
