The 22nd edition of the 2024 Bankers’ Games is currently taking place at the University of Lagos Sports Complex, having started on November 25 and scheduled to conclude on November 30. This year’s competition features eight participating teams, representing various banks, and they are engaged in a series of sports that encompass chess, virtual games, football, table tennis, volleyball, scrabble, and athletics. Organisers of the event have received positive feedback from both participants and staff, who commend the initiative for fostering camaraderie and networking opportunities among bankers in Nigeria. The Games have become an essential platform for the banking community, blending competitiveness with personal connections.
Fela Bank-Olemoh, co-founder of Media Vision Limited, stated at the draws held earlier this month at the Best Western Hotel in Victoria Island that the Bankers’ Games play a significant role in uniting the banking sector. Commenting on the atmosphere during the Games, participants have echoed the sentiment of appreciation for the organizers, reaffirming the event’s purpose beyond just competition. Staff members have reported how the Games enrich their professional and personal lives, creating a space where they can connect with colleagues from different banks, forge friendships, and engage in enjoyable physical activities.
Dimeji Ojo from First Bank expressed optimism for their performance this year, highlighting their success from the previous year when they won the football segment. Despite a challenging start in their opening match against FCMB, which saw them go a goal down, First Bank rallied to secure a decisive 3-1 victory. Ojo pointed out that the camaraderie built during these games contributes significantly to the growth of relationships that extend beyond professional boundaries, showcasing the importance of such events in enhancing workplace morale and unity among competing institutions.
Team UBA’s Manager, Austin Ihenyen, added that the Bankers’ Games have established themselves as a staple in the industry, balancing work and leisure while providing opportunities for personal connections among professionals. He mentioned that the initiative aims to promote networking, reduce stress, and encourage staff to unleash talents outside of their banking skills. Winning becomes a secondary objective compared to the broader goal of fostering a supportive community within the competitive banking environment. This underlying philosophy has been instrumental in the Games’ long-standing presence in the industry.
Samuel Olufowose from Team Access shared his insights on the significance of the Games in fostering a healthy lifestyle and team bonding among colleagues from different banks. He highlighted that this initiative transcends traditional industry rivalries, illustrating how banks can come together in a spirit of camaraderie and friendship while recognizing the competitive nature of their day jobs. The Games serve as a reminder that despite being in a competitive industry, there are still opportunities to connect, collaborate, and build relationships that can benefit their professional lives.
On the opening day of the competition, First Bank achieved notable success by winning the March Past event, thus claiming the first medal of the Games. In other key matches for the football event, First Bank’s triumph over FCMB and Sterling Bank’s victory against Stanbic IBTC reflected the competitive nature of the tournament. Additionally, the goalless draw between Access Bank and UBA illustrated the intensity and unpredictability of the matches, setting the stage for an exciting competition that is expected to showcase talent, sportsmanship, and the unifying spirit of the banking community. The organizers are justifiably praised for creating an event that resonates with the participants on both personal and professional levels.
