….Over 100 researchers, policymakers, and industry experts examine pathways to sustainable economic transformation in developing economies
- By Demola Atobaba, Ado-Ekiti
Ekiti State University (EKSU), Ado-Ekiti, has reinforced its growing reputation as a hub for policy-driven research and academic excellence with the recent hosting of the Sixth International Financial Conference of the Nigerian Society for Financial Research (NSFR), bringing together more than 100 scholars, financial experts, policymakers, regulators, and captains of industries from Nigeria and abroad. The conference which was held for three days at the Twin Hall lecture theatre of the Faculty of the Social Sciences focused on the theme, “Financial Innovation, Real Sector Performance, and Sustainable Development in Developing Economies: Issues, Challenges and Prospects,” providing a platform for interdisciplinary dialogue on strengthening economic resilience, accelerating financial-sector reforms, and promoting sustainable development through innovation.
Participants examined the evolving role of financial technology (FinTech), evidence-based policymaking, digital transformation, and institutional reforms in improving productivity within the real sector and advancing inclusive economic growth across developing economies.
The Chairman of the Local Organising Committee, Professor J.A. Oloyede, said the conference was convened to bridge the gap between academic research and public policy by generating practical recommendations capable of addressing contemporary economic challenges.
According to him, more than 80 peer-reviewed research papers were presented by experts from universities, research institutions, financial organisations, and the Nigerians in diaspora, reflecting diverse perspectives on financial reforms, innovation, economic governance, and sustainable development.
Professor Oloyede said, that the conference proceedings and policy recommendations would be made available to relevant government agencies, financial institutions, researchers, and other stakeholders.
Opening the conference, EKSU Vice-Chancellor Professor Joseph Babatola Ayodele reaffirmed the university’s commitment to producing research that delivers practical solutions to societal challenges and contributes meaningfully to national and global development.
He said universities must increasingly serve as centres of innovation where research informs policy, drives technological advancement, and supports sustainable socio-economic transformation.
Professor Ayodele also acknowledged the support of the Visitor to the University and Governor of Ekiti State, Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, whose administration, he said, has continued to strengthen the university’s academic and physical infrastructure, enhancing its competitiveness among higher education institutions in Nigeria.
Expressing confidence in the conference’s expected outcomes, the Vice-Chancellor said the deliberations would contribute significantly to ongoing conversations on economic reform, financial inclusion, and sustainable development across Africa and other emerging economies.
He further commended the Nigerian Society for Financial Research for selecting EKSU as the host of the international conference and encouraged delegates to explore the culture, hospitality, and heritage of Ekiti State.
In his welcome remarks, the Acting Dean of the Faculty of Management Sciences, Dr. Ayodeji Awolaja, emphasised the importance of stronger collaboration among researchers, industry practitioners, financial institutions, and policymakers in addressing the rapidly changing global financial landscape.
He noted that innovative, multidisciplinary research remains essential for developing practical policy solutions capable of improving economic governance and long-term development outcomes.
The opening ceremony featured cultural performances by students of EKSU’s Department of Theatre and Media Arts, goodwill messages from distinguished guests, and the conferment of honours on individuals recognised for their contributions to financial research and higher education.
As part of the event, the Nigerian Society for Financial Research formally invested Professor Joseph Babatola Ayodele as a Patron of the Society in recognition of his leadership and contributions to academic development. His Royal Majesty, Oba (Dr) Gabriel Ayodele Adejuwon, the Onisan of Isan-Ekiti, also received the Society’s Award of Excellence.
The conference concluded with a colourful dinner where 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 across developing economies.
Notable dignitaries present at the dinner and courtesy visit included the Vice- Chancellor, Adekunle Ajasin University, AAUA, Akungba Akoko,Ondo State, Prof.T.M. Obamuyi, Vice- Chancellor, Jimoh Babalola University, Ilorin, Prof M.A. Ijaya, Former Vice- Chancellor, Bamidele Olumilua University of Education, Science and Technology (BOUESTI), Prof O. V Adeoluwa, representative of the Vice- chancellor FUTES, Iyin-Ekiti, Prof.Olumide.M. Ogundipe, Former Ekiti State Commissioner For Finance, Chief Bayo Aina, Prof. Abiodun A.Ojo representing the Vice-chancellor, Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti, (ABUAD), Mr. Jamiu Rabiu, Central Bank Of Nigeria, Ado-Ekiti, Principal Officers of Ekiti State University, Provosts and Deans of Faculties, Delegates across Nigerian states , Staff and students of EKSU.
