By DAYO ADESULU
Institute Announces Scholarships, Training and Pathways Into Nigeria’s Capital Market
The future of young professionals at Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH) received a dramatic lift on Tuesday as the Chartered Institute of Stockbrokers (CIS) rolled out a sweeping package of scholarships, training programmes and career opportunities designed to position students for success in Nigeria’s expanding financial markets.
The initiative—described as one of the most ambitious engagements between a professional body and a tertiary institution—marks a fresh chapter in CIS support for YABATECH students, coming at a time when youth unemployment and skill gaps continue to dominate national concerns.
CIS Management Visits YABATECH, Announces New Opportunities
A delegation of top CIS officials, led by Registrar/CEO Mr. Ayo Adeonipekun, represented the President and Chairman of Council, Mr. Oloropo Dada, who was away on official duty. Adeonipekun described YABATECH as “Nigeria’s first tertiary institution and an enduring symbol of academic excellence,” noting that the Institute is committed to grooming a new generation of market-ready professionals.
He stressed that CIS—established by Act 105 of 1992—offers internationally recognised qualifications that open doors to opportunities across global markets.
Two Key Certification Pathways Highlighted
The Registrar broke down the Institute’s certification track into two major routes:
The CIS Professional Examination, the flagship programme that certifies full stockbrokers
The Certified Securities and Investment Support Specialist (CSISS) route, now fully digitised
He added that both certifications are accessible globally following the Institute’s digital transformation drive. The syllabus has also been updated to include cryptocurrency, digital assets and blockchain investment models in line with the Federal Government’s 2025 digital economy agenda.
CIS Offers Financial Support for Students
In one of the most anticipated announcements of the day, Adeonipekun confirmed that CIS is ramping up funding support for young Nigerians interested in pursuing professional certification but unable to afford the fees.
He revealed that:
CIS is building an endowment-based financial support system in partnership with capital market employers and alumni
He personally pledged to sponsor at least three YABATECH students annually through his foundation
Partner organisations have already begun sponsoring candidates, including a firm currently funding 10 students from Ahmadu Bello University (ABU)
The commitment sparked excitement among students who turned out for the session.
YABATECH Rector Welcomes Partnership, Announces New Support Scheme
Responding, the Rector, Dr. Engr. Ibraheem Abdul, praised the initiative and reaffirmed the school’s readiness to expand collaboration with CIS on curriculum development, industry immersion programmes and co-teaching modules.
He disclosed that YABATECH is working on a loan/grant scheme to assist students seeking professional qualifications and appealed to CIS to consider rebates for indigent learners
Dr. Abdul stressed that close industry engagement is essential to renewing students’ faith in education at a time of increased distractions.
“The youth of today need inspiration,” he said.
“We want industry professionals in our classrooms to show them the possibilities that education and certification can unlock.”
He noted that YABATECH already has students who qualified for top-tier professional examinations while still on campus, adding that stronger partnerships will help scale this success.
CIS Promises Long-Term Support for Students and Staff
In their closing remarks, CIS delegates reaffirmed the Institute’s commitment to the college through:
Ongoing scholarship opportunities
Staff and student training via the CIS Academy
Mentorship and career guidance programmes
Retirement planning workshops for staff
Industry placements for exceptional students
The initiative marks a significant milestone in CIS support for YABATECH students, strengthening the bridge between academic training and industry readiness.
Caption: l-r: The rector, Yaba College of Technology, Dr Engr Ibraheem Abdul, in admiration, receiving a corporate souvenir from the Registrar, Chartered Institute of Stockbrokers (CIS), Mr. Ayo Adeonipekun during a courtesy visit paid to the college by the institute
