The Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN) and First City Monument Bank (FCMB) have jointly recognised and rewarded two upright citizens, Ms. Ngozi Kekwaaru and Mallam Auwalu Alkasim, for their integrity.
Ms. Kekwaaru, a staff of Eko Hotel and Suites, and Mallam Alkasim, a tricycle driver in Kano, were honoured with the Outstanding Integrity Award by the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria during its 58th Annual Bankers’ Dinner and Grand Finale of its 60th Anniversary celebrations, held on November 24, 2023, in Lagos. Ms. Kekwaaru for her honest act of returning $70,000 left behind by a guest at the hotel. Mallam Alkasim, on the other hand, for his integrity in returning N15 million forgotten by a passenger in his tricycle.
In addition to the CIBN’s prestigious award, First City Monument Bank (FCMB) rewarded Ms. Kekwaaru and Mallam Alkasim for their exceptional deeds by presenting them with cash gifts of N1 million each. This financial gesture underscores the bank’s deep appreciation for commitment to ethical behaviour.
Presenting the cheques to the duo at the event, FCMB’s Managing Director, Mrs. Yemisi Edun, stated: “We congratulate Ms Kekwaaru and Mallam Alkasim for receiving the Outstanding Integrity Award from the CIBN. In a world where integrity is becoming increasingly scarce, your actions are a beacon of hope, setting a standard for others to follow. Your ethical conduct aligns with our values at First City Monument Bank, and we are immensely proud to have you as a member of our extended community. Our reward of N1 million expresses our appreciation for your actions, which embody integrity, a principle we hold dear. We are confident that your story will continue to inspire others to embrace integrity in all their endeavours.”
On his part, the President/Chairman of the Council of the CIBN, Dr. Ken Opara, FCIB, remarked: “Ms Ngozi Kekwaaru and Mallam Auwalu Alkasim have demonstrated the true essence of integrity through their selfless actions. Their honesty and commitment to doing the right thing, even when faced with personal gain, exemplify the values that underpin the banking profession.”
