EKSU Hosts 6th International Financial Research Conference, Vice-Chancellor Receives NSFR Patron Award

Ekiti State University (EKSU), Ado-Ekiti, hosted the 6th International Financial Conference of the Nigerian Society for Financial Research (NSFR), bringing together more than 100 researchers, financial experts, policymakers, regulators and industry leaders from Nigeria and abroad to discuss strategies for sustainable economic transformation in developing economies.

The three-day conference, held at the Twin Hall Lecture Theatre of the Faculty of Social Sciences, was themed, "Financial Innovation, Real Sector Performance, and Sustainable Development in Developing Economies: Issues, Challenges and Prospects."

Participants examined the role of financial technology (FinTech), evidence-based policymaking, digital transformation and institutional reforms in improving productivity within the real sector and promoting inclusive economic growth.

Chairman of the Local Organising Committee, Professor J.A. Oloyede, said the conference was organised to bridge the gap between academic research and public policy by producing practical recommendations to address contemporary economic challenges.

According to him, more than 80 peer-reviewed research papers were presented by scholars from universities, research institutions, financial organisations and the Nigerian diaspora, covering issues relating to financial innovation, economic governance, policy reforms and sustainable development.

Professor Oloyede added that the conference proceedings and policy recommendations would be forwarded to relevant government agencies, financial institutions, researchers and other stakeholders.

Declaring the conference open, the Vice-Chancellor of EKSU, Professor Joseph Babatola Ayodele, reaffirmed the University's commitment to producing research that addresses societal challenges and contributes to national and global development.

He said universities should continue to serve as centres of innovation where research informs policy, drives technological advancement and supports sustainable socio-economic development.

The Vice-Chancellor also acknowledged the support of the Visitor to the University and Governor of Ekiti State, Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, for strengthening the University's academic and physical infrastructure.

Professor Ayodele expressed confidence that the conference would contribute meaningfully to discussions on economic reforms, financial inclusion and sustainable development across Africa and other developing economies.

He commended the Nigerian Society for Financial Research for selecting EKSU as the host institution and encouraged delegates to explore the culture and hospitality of Ekiti State.

In his welcome address, the Acting Dean of the Faculty of Management Sciences, Dr. Ayodeji Awolaja, stressed the need for stronger collaboration among researchers, policymakers, financial institutions and industry practitioners to address emerging global financial challenges.

He noted that multidisciplinary research remains critical to developing practical policy solutions that will strengthen economic governance and promote long-term development.

The opening ceremony featured cultural performances by students of the Department of Theatre and Media Arts, goodwill messages from invited guests and the presentation of awards to individuals recognised for their contributions to financial research and higher education.

As part of the conference, the Nigerian Society for Financial Research invested Professor Joseph Babatola Ayodele as a Patron of the Society in recognition of his leadership and contributions to academic development.

The Society also presented an Award of Excellence to the Onisan of Isan-Ekiti, His Royal Majesty, Oba (Dr.) Gabriel Ayodele Adejuwon.

The conference concluded with a dinner during which delegates reviewed key recommendations and explored opportunities for future research collaboration, knowledge exchange and policy engagement aimed at strengthening financial systems and promoting sustainable economic development.

Among the dignitaries in attendance were:

• Vice-Chancellor, Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko, Professor T.M. Obamuyi.
• Vice-Chancellor, Jimoh Babalola University, Ilorin, Professor M.A. Ijaya.
• Former Vice-Chancellor, Bamidele Olumilua University of Education, Science and Technology (BOUESTI), Professor O.V. Adeoluwa.
• Representative of the Vice-Chancellor, Federal University of Technology and Environmental Sciences (FUTES), Iyin-Ekiti, Professor Olumide M. Ogundipe.
• Former Ekiti State Commissioner for Finance, Chief Bayo Aina.
• Representative of the Vice-Chancellor, Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD), Professor Abiodun A. Ojo.
• Mr. Jamiu Rabiu of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Ado-Ekiti.
• Principal officers of Ekiti State University.
• Provosts and Deans of Faculties.
• Delegates from across Nigeria.
• Staff and students of Ekiti State University.