The newly inaugurated 14th president and chairman of Council of the Chartered Institute of Stockbrokers (CIS), and its first female president, Dr Fiona Ahimie, has unveiled a reform agenda aimed at strengthening the Institute’s influence, expanding its national and regional footprint, enhancing the recognition of its professional qualifications, and establishing a N5 billion endowment fund to support young professionals in the securities and investment industry.
Also sworn in were the first and second vice presidents, Dr Akeem Oyewale and Jude Chiemeka, respectively, while the outgoing president, Oluropo Dada, assumed the position of immediate past president (IPP).
A key highlight of Ahimie’s inaugural address was the proposed N5 billion CIS Endowment Fund, designed to support talented young professionals who lack the financial resources to pursue careers in the securities and investment industry.
She 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.
Ahimie paid tribute to her predecessor, Oluropo Dada, describing him as a ‘remarkable leader, friend, and mentor’ whose tenure strengthened collaboration among principal officers and elevated the Institute’s profile.
The president 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.
As part of the first pillar, the administration plans to launch a Member Engagement and Participation Initiative to increase the visibility and involvement of stockbrokers and investment professionals in industry forums, policy discussions, and stakeholder engagements.
To promote greater national inclusion, Ahimie also announced plans to expand the Institute’s presence beyond Lagos and Abuja by strengthening regional structures and establishing additional district societies across the country.
The 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.