In a bold step toward strengthening Nigeria’s entrepreneurial landscape, the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN) has signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with LIMBsimple, a dynamic business development firm. This partnership aims to empower entrepreneurs and professionals, creating a financially inclusive and resilient business environment across the country.
Professor Pius Deji Olanrewaju, President and Chairman of the Council at CIBN, expressed strong optimism about the collaboration, describing it as a catalyst for long-term value creation across various sectors.
“We’re proud to partner with LIMBsimple, an innovation-driven company committed to reshaping the entrepreneurial space,” Olanrewaju stated during the MoU signing. “Together, we will provide structured training, mentorship, access to global learning platforms, funding support, and SME clinics to help professionals—including retired bankers—transition into successful entrepreneurs.”
This partnership aligns with the ‘Y’ Pillar of CIBN’s Legacy Agenda, which emphasizes Youth and Entrepreneurial Engagement, underscoring the institute’s dedication to preparing Nigeria’s future business leaders.
In his remarks, Ezekiel Solesi, Founder and CEO of LIMBsimple, highlighted his firm’s track record of success. “We’ve supported over 4,500 entrepreneurs, with many growing from the idea stage to building businesses generating over ₦100 million annually. Our community has produced 54 entrepreneurs who’ve crossed the ₦1 billion mark, with our top earner making ₦850 billion in revenue last year.”
Solesi emphasized the importance of combining entrepreneurial education with access to funding. “This partnership fills a crucial gap—financing. With CIBN’s financial networks and our ecosystem of growth tools and mentoring, we can help more businesses thrive and build credibility with investors.”
Key initiatives of the partnership include:
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Monthly knowledge-sharing sessions
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Customized business clinics
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Access to LIMBsimple’s growth communities
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Strategic mentorship opportunities
The MoU also paves the way for joint research, training programs, and enterprise solutions tailored to CIBN members and Nigeria’s broader business community.
Both institutions believe the collaboration marks a milestone in reshaping the business narrative in Nigeria, combining CIBN’s financial structure with LIMBsimple’s entrepreneurial prowess to unlock national economic potential through innovation.
“Just like entrepreneurs helped shape the United States in the 1800s, Nigeria’s future will be driven by its business builders,” Solesi concluded. “We are honoured to partner with CIBN on this journey toward national development through enterprise.”
