The Chartered Institute of Stockbrokers (CIS) plans to raise about N5 billion in endowment fund to deepen professionalism in the capital market as part of efforts to sustain Nigeria as a globally competitive market. EITIValidation Support

President, Chartered Institute of Stockbrokers (CIS), Dr. Fiona Ahimie, said the N5 billion fund would be used to support talented young professionals who lack the financial resources to pursue careers in the securities and investment industry.

According to her, the institute would pursue an ambitious reform agenda aimed at strengthening its influence, expanding its national and regional footprint, enhancing the recognition of its professional qualifications.

Ahimie, who spoke at her inauguration as the first female president of the CIS pledged to build on the achievements of previous administrations while positioning the institute as a key driver of capital market development and Nigeria’s broader economic transformation.

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Ahimie, the 14th president of CIS, outlined a five-point agenda centred on enhanced member engagement, increased recognition of CIS certifications, nationwide membership expansion, regional integration beyond Nigeria’s borders, and improved financial sustainability. EITIValidation Support

She said the institute plans to launch a member engagement and participation initiative aimed at increasing the visibility and involvement of stockbrokers and investment professionals in industry forums, policy discussions, and stakeholder engagements.

According to her, to promote greater national inclusion, there are also plans to expand the institute’s presence beyond Lagos and Abuja through stronger regional structures and the establishment of additional district societies across the country.

“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.

She paid tribute to her predecessor, Mr. Oluropo Dada, describing him as a remarkable leader, friend, and mentor whose tenure strengthened collaboration among principal officers and elevated the institute’s profile.

Also sworn in were the First and Second Vice Presidents, Dr. Akeem Oyewale and Mr. Jude Chiemeka, respectively, while the outgoing President, Mr. Oluropo Dada, assumed the position of Immediate Past President (IPP).

The historic inauguration attracted dignitaries from government, the private sector, and the financial services industry, many of whom commended the institute’s commitment to gender inclusion and expressed confidence in Ahimie’s leadership.

Among those who delivered goodwill messages were Nigeria’s Vice President, Kashim Shettima, represented by the Special Adviser to the President on Economic Affairs, Dr. Tope Fasua; the Governor of Ekiti State, Abiodun Oyebanji; Senate Majority Leader, Opeyemi Bamidele; Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim; Chairman of the Senate Committee on Capital Market and Institutions, Senator Osita Izunaso; Chairperson of the Better Life Programme, Aisha Babangida; Director-General, Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Dr. Emomotimi Agama; former Director-General, Nigerian Stock Exchange (now NGX Group), Professor Ndi Okereke-Onyuike; Chairman, Association of Securities Dealing Houses of Nigeria (ASHON), Mr Sehinde Adenagbe as well as captains of industry, traditional rulers, and other distinguished guests. EITIValidation Support