The 2024 CFA Society Nigeria Ethics Challenge saw UNILAG win first place, followed by OAU and Covenant University, as the competition promoted ethical leadership and practical financial skills among students from 28 participating universities.
The University of Lagos (UNILAG) emerged as the winner of the 2024 Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) Society Nigeria Ethics Challenge, with Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Osun State, and Covenant University (CU), Ogun State, securing second and third positions, respectively.
This year’s edition set a new benchmark, featuring 28 universities from across Nigeria. The finals, held in Lagos, included eight institutions: UNILAG, OAU, CU, Madonna University, Lagos State University, the University of Ilorin, the University of Ibadan, and the Federal University of Technology, Owerri.
The Ethics Challenge, organized annually by CFA Society Nigeria with First Bank of Nigeria as the primary sponsor, provides students with practical exposure to ethical decision-making in finance. Teams of four students analyzed real-world cases involving ethical dilemmas, formulated solutions, and presented them to a panel of judges.
According to Ibukun Oyedeji, President of CFA Society Nigeria, the competition helps participants learn and apply the CFA Institute’s Code of Ethics and Standards of Professional Conduct. She highlighted the initiative’s role in preparing future financial professionals to uphold ethical standards and make sound decisions for the benefit of their organizations and society.
Deputy Director of CFA Society Nigeria, Yemi Ajagun, emphasized that the competition is not just about theoretical knowledge but about instilling integrity and values crucial for professional success. Ajagun remarked, “No amount of technical expertise can substitute for a lack of integrity,” adding that the challenge bridges the gap between academic learning and real-world professional demands.
Sheyi Shetan, Group Head of Financial Institutions and Multilaterals at First Bank of Nigeria, reiterated the bank’s dedication to ethical principles, noting its 130-year legacy of integrity. Shetan stated, “This competition is an opportunity to inspire young professionals to make ethical decisions as they ascend to leadership roles.”
Since its inception seven years ago with only two universities, the Ethics Challenge has grown to include 28 participating institutions. Oyedeji reaffirmed CFA Society Nigeria’s mission to reach every university in Nigeria, establish investment clubs, and equip students with essential tools for thriving in the professional world.
While financial prizes were awarded, Oyedeji stressed that the true value of the competition lies in the knowledge, confidence, and ethical foundation it provides to participants, ensuring they are prepared to navigate the complexities of the financial sector with integrity.
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