The quest for a brighter financial future took center stage this week as the University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT) hosted the highly anticipated 2026 Career Fair 2.0. Organized by the Finance Society, the event served as a clarion call for the next generation to shift their focus from seeking traditional employment to becoming innovators and entrepreneurs.
Redefining Success in the Financial Sector
Representing the Rivers State Commissioner for Finance and supervisor of the Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, Hon. Lekue Kenneth, the Director of Information and Public Relations, Carol Ibinabo Matthew, delivered an inspiring keynote.
"The era of waiting for paid employment is evolving," Hon. Lekue stated through his representative. He urged the youth to view the current economic landscape not as a barrier, but as a fertile ground for innovation, entrepreneurship, and continuous learning.
Highlighting the event’s theme, “Building Africa’s Finance Future: Innovation, Capital Markets and the Next Generation of Finance Professionals,” the Commissioner underscored that while the government continues to refine policies for fiscal responsibility and investment, the real transformation lies in the hands of the youth. He charged the Finance Society members to treat integrity, accountability, and credibility as their most valuable assets in building a lasting career.
The Five Pillars of Personal Capital
The event featured a powerful session by the Vice President of the CFA Society, Nigeria, Dr. Odiri Oginni, who provided a roadmap for professional excellence. She challenged students to invest in five distinct forms of capital:
Financial Capital: Growing liquid assets.
Human Capital: Developing specialized education and skills.
Social Capital: Cultivating meaningful professional relationships and networks.
Intellectual Capital: Mastering innovation and creative problem-solving.
Reputational Capital: Building a foundation of unwavering trust.
A Future-Focused Dialogue
The Director-General of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Dr. Timi Agama, further bolstered the students' morale by pledging the Commission’s full support for financial literacy initiatives.
Victory Kwokwo, President of the Finance Society, UNIPORT Chapter, expressed her gratitude to the seasoned industry leaders who graced the event. She encouraged her fellow students to use the insights gained to sharpen their professional trajectories.
The Career Fair 2.0 stands as a testament to the potential within Rivers State, proving that with the right mix of networking, mentorship, and grit, the next generation of finance professionals in Port Harcourt is ready to compete on a global scale.
Did you attend the Career Fair 2.0? Share your biggest takeaway in the comments below!
0 Comments