Equipping professionals with the expertise, judgement and perspective to lead modern finance

Shaping minds, molding entrepreneurs, building futures…

About City School of Banking & Financial Studies

Our Vision

At City School of Banking & Financial Studies, we envision a future where financial professionals are not just adapting to change, but driving it. We see a world where the fusion of traditional financial wisdom and cutting-edge technology creates unprecedented opportunities for innovation and growth. Our goal is to be at the forefront of this transformation, shaping financial leaders who can navigate the complexities of global finance with confidence, ethical grounding, and innovative thinking.We envision a future in which financial professionals do more than respond to change, they lead it. By integrating proven banking principles with emerging technologies, we aim to unlock new pathways for innovation, resilience, and sustainable growth across the global financial system. Our ambition is to shape confident, ethical, and forward-thinking leaders equipped to navigate the complexities of modern finance.

Our Mission

Our mission is to deliver industry-relevant financial education that prepares professionals to excel in a rapidly evolving landscape. We do this by:

   – Bridging traditional finance with emerging technologies through a rigorous, future-focused curriculum
   – Empowering learners at every career stage with practical skills, strategic insight, and professional networks
   – Building a global community of financial professionals committed to innovation, integrity, and inclusive growth
   – Continuously refining our programs to reflect regulatory developments, market trends, and technological advancement

Our History

Founded in 2004, City School of Banking & Financial Studies was established in response to fundamental shifts within the financial industry. Recognizing the growing convergence of finance and technology, our founders — drawn from banking, technology, and education — set out to create an institution capable of preparing professionals for both present demands and future disruption.

From inception, our focus has been on relevance and impact. Early adoption of disciplines such as digital banking, blockchain, and data-driven finance distinguished our approach and enabled strategic collaborations with financial institutions and technology-driven organizations.

Today, City School of Banking & Financial Studies delivers a broad portfolio of professional programs ranging from targeted certifications to comprehensive, career-advancing qualifications. Our learners and alumni span more than 50 countries and contribute meaningfully across banking, fintech, investment, risk, and regulatory environments worldwide.

What Sets Us Apart

1. Industry-Aligned Curriculum

Our programs are developed in close collaboration with industry practitioners and institutions. Guided by an Industry Advisory Board of senior financial leaders, our curriculum remains current, practical, and aligned with real-world expectations.

2. Cutting-Edge Technology Focus

We treat technology as a core driver of financial transformation, not a peripheral subject. Key focus areas include:

   – Blockchain and Digital Assets — applications spanning decentralized finance, smart contracts, and digital infrastructure
   – Artificial Intelligence in Finance — including trading, risk analytics, compliance, and customer experience
   – Digital Banking and Payments — hands-on exposure to modern banking platforms and delivery models
   – Data and Financial Analytics — applying data-driven insights to strategic and operational decision-making

3. Flexible Learning Paths

Designed for working professionals, our learning pathways prioritize accessibility and adaptability:

  • Self-paced digital learning supported by structured guidance
  • Modular programs that allow stackable credentials and customized progression
  • Multiple enrollment periods throughout the year
  • Mobile-enabled platforms for learning without location constraints
4. Faculty with Real-World Expertise

Our faculty combines academic depth with extensive industry experience:

  • Instructors drawn from global banking, fintech, investment, and regulatory institutions
  • Practitioners who integrate real-world casework into learning delivery
  • Ongoing engagement with industry to ensure relevance and currency
  • Regular guest sessions led by senior executives and subject-matter experts
5. Professional Networks and Career Connectivity

We place strong emphasis on relationship-building as a pillar of career success:

  • A diverse, international student and alumni community
  • Access to industry events, webinars, and thought-leadership forums
  • Structured mentorship opportunities with experienced professionals
  • Career exposure through institutional partnerships and collaborative initiatives
6. Applied, Experiential Learning

Our programs prioritize application over theory alone:

  • Project-based coursework addressing real industry challenges
  • Financial simulations to develop decision-making capability in realistic settings
  • Capstone projects demonstrating end-to-end professional competence
  • Internship and industry exposure opportunities for eligible participants

Our Values

Our values define both our culture and our outcomes:

  • Innovation – advancing financial education through continuous improvement and technological adoption
  • Integrity – promoting ethical leadership and responsible financial practice
  • Inclusivity – expanding access to quality education through flexible structures and support
  • Excellence – maintaining high standards across curriculum, delivery, and learner experience
  • Global Perspective – preparing professionals for an interconnected and international financial environment
  • Lifelong Learning – fostering continuous professional growth beyond formal qualification

Commitment to Sustainable Finance

We recognize the financial sector’s responsibility in addressing environmental, social, and governance challenges. Sustainable finance principles are embedded across our programs, ensuring our graduates are prepared to contribute to resilient, responsible, and equitable financial systems.

Shaping the Future of Finance

City School of Banking & Financial Studies supports learners at every stage, from early-career entrants to experienced professionals seeking strategic renewal. Through relevant education, strong networks, and forward-looking insight, we equip our community to lead with confidence in a new era of finance.

Empowering Financial Minds. Advancing Global Finance.

LEADERSHIP

CEO

Olayinka Odutola
PhD, MSc, MBA, MALD, ACMR, ACIP, ACIB, FCIB, ACMA, CGMA, FCMA, FERP

BEST GRADUATING PhD STUDENT, DEPARTMENT OF BANKING & FINANCE, COVENANT UNIVERSITY, NIGERIA, 2025.
DIRECTOR GENERAL & CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER, ASSOCIATION OF ENTERPRISE RISK MANAGEMENT PROFESSIONALS, AERMP.
GOVERNING COUNCIL MEMBER, CHARTERED INSTITUTE OF BANKERS OF NIGERIA, CIBN, 2020 – 2024.
FEDERAL GOVERNMENT APPOINTED AMBASSADOR & ADVOCATE, NATIONAL DRUG LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCY (NDLEA) WAR AGAINST DRUG ABUSE (W.A.D.A)

Our Team

Dr. Olayinka Odutola

CEO

Lecturer

Olugbile Erinwusi

MBA | Msc. Finance | Msc. Risk Mgt.| MMP | FRMP | GARP | Chief Risk Officer, Providus Bank

Lecturer

Fisayo Awogbade

M.Sc Accounting | B.Sc Banking and Finance | Assurance | Taxation | Consultancy | Past Registrar Chattered institute of taxation of Nigeria (CITN)

Lecturer

Dr. Funso Okunlola

Ph.D. Finance | FHEA | FERP | PGCert Higher Education Practice | PGDE | BAM | M.Sc. Finance | MBA Finance | B.Sc. Finance and Banking

Lecturer

Kingsley Kehinde Adebisi

FCIB | FERP

Lecturer

Dr Godswill Osuma

UK Exceptional Global Talent | Finance, Business & Economics Researcher

Lecturer

Rafiat Onitiri

MBA | CB | FCIB | FERP | Member of Governing Council Chattered Institute of Bankers, CIBN

Lecturer

Henry Onyemah Oster

MBA | FERP | Credit Management Consultant I Microfinance Professional I Author I Trainer I Business Manager

Lecturer

Alex Ajibo

FCIB | FCA | FERP | Managing Partner at Alex Ajibo & Co. (Chartered Accountants)

Lecturer

Dr Segun Oshadare

Ph.D. | FCIB | University Lecturer | Member Governing Council Chattered Institute of Bankers, CIBN

Lecturer

Olumide Ikumapayi

MSC | FCA |FERP | Chartered Accountant | Financial Data Analyst | Management Consultant

Lecturer

Dr. Agatha(Nkem) Amadi

FERP | MSc Economics | MSc Finance | MBA | Ph.D. Finance | Remedial and Classified Asset Management

Lecturer

Rotimi Olaoye

FCA | FCIB | FERP | Business Analyst | Strategy & Process Improvement Expert | Financial & Mgt Consultant

Dr Adedeji Ajadi

Banking, Finance, Management Consulting and Education Expert | PhD. Finance | MBA, Finance | MSc. Finance | MSc. Investment and Agric Economics | Fellow of ICAN & CIS |

Prof. Folake Olowokudejo

FERP | B.Sc. (Hons) Insurance | MBA Marketing | M.Sc. Marketing | Ph.D. Business Admininstration

Mutiu Adebola

ACA | FCTI | FCIB | KYC/AML Consultant | FATCA | JMLSG | POCA | OFAC | FATF

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