Thomas Adewumi University Oko-Irese, achieved another remarkable milestone in its pursuit of global excellence in education as it formally welcomed the Nigeria representatives of the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA), UK, to the university campus for the official signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) and official launch on Tuesday, November 4, 2025.
The partnership marks a significant step toward advancing professional education and fostering industry-aligned competencies among students and faculty members in the field of management and accounting.
The event, which took place at the Vice-Chancellor's Office, East Campus, commenced with an opening address by Dr. Olamide Olayemi, Head of the Department of Accounting, who warmly welcomed the CIMA delegation to the institution. In her remarks, she described the day as a milestone in TAU’s academic journey, emphasizing the importance of partnerships that prepare students for global opportunities.
In his introductory remarks, the Acting Dean of the Faculty of Management and Social Sciences (FMSS), Dr. Abiodun Owolabi, introduced the TAU Management team, led by the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Francisca O. Oladipo, noting that the collaboration represents a vital link between academic learning and global professional standards.
The CIMA team, led by Mrs. Ijeoma Anadozie, Country Director, CIMA Nigeria, included Mr. Oluseye Denton, Business Development Manager, and Mr. Olabiyi Famurewa, Business Specialist.
Delivering her welcome address, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Oladipo expressed delight in hosting the CIMA representatives and reaffirmed TAU’s commitment to partnerships that elevate the institution’s academic standing and enhance student employability. “This partnership is not just for the Faculty of Management and Social Sciences but for the entire university. It aligns with our vision to ensure that every TAU student graduates with at least two professional certifications alongside their academic degree,” she stated.
She highlighted that the university remains dedicated to international linkages, innovation, and capacity building; all aimed at transforming students into globally competitive professionals.
In response, Mrs. Anadozie commended TAU’s visionary leadership and expressed excitement about collaborating with a female Vice-Chancellor who shares a passion for education and innovation. She explained that the CIMA partnership will provide faculty training, student mentorship, access to research grants, and internship opportunities with top global organizations. She further revealed that CIMA’s initiatives also include establishing on-campus student clubs and research collaborations with institutions such as ICAN and ANAN, ensuring that students gain both local and international recognition.
The highlight of the first segment was the official MoU signing ceremony, where both the Vice-Chancellor and the CIMA Nigeria Country Director formally endorsed the agreement, symbolizing a shared commitment to advancing academic excellence and professional development.
The second segment of the event held at the Yusuf Olaolu Ali Hall, West Campus, featured an interactive session with faculty and students. Dr. Olayemi described the day as a “landmark occasion,” being the first faculty in TAU to sign an international partnership agreement.
In his address, Assoc. Prof. James Ishola, representing the Vice-Chancellor, commended the partnership, stating that it would enable students to graduate with both academic and professional credentials; a significant competitive advantage in today’s job market.
Speaking at the session, Mr. Oluseye Denton elaborated on the benefits of the partnership, including participation in the CGMA Business Leaders Challenge, an international undergraduate competition that will see TAU students compete on a global stage.
The event also featured a quiz competition among students, anchored by Mr. Denton, with teams Diamond, Sapphire, Gold, and Emerald competing enthusiastically. Team Diamond emerged as the overall winner with 45 points out of 50, followed by Team Sapphire with 41.37 points.
At the close of the event, the CIMA team presented a public address sound system to the Faculty of Management and Social Sciences as a token of partnership and support. The Sub-Dean of the Faculty, Dr. J.K. Abegunde, delivered the vote of thanks, appreciating the CIMA representatives for their impactful visit and fruitful engagement.
About CIMA
The Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA) is a global professional body headquartered in the United Kingdom, offering qualifications in business, finance, and management accounting. With members in over 170 countries, CIMA equips professionals with the expertise to integrate financial insight with strategic decision-making, a vital skill in today’s dynamic business environment.
The TAU-CIMA partnership underscores Thomas Adewumi University’s unwavering commitment to academic excellence, international collaboration, and student empowerment. It represents another bold step in the university’s journey toward producing graduates who are globally competitive, industry-ready, and professionally certified.
