Sixty teams representing ten Nigerian universities have entered the 2025 edition of the CGMA Business Leader Challenge, an annual regional competition organised by the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA) to groom the next generation of finance and business leaders.
Now in its third edition, the challenge provides an experiential learning platform that simulates real-world business environments, allowing participants to apply strategic thinking, financial management, and leadership principles in solving practical business problems.
According to a statement released by the organisers, the participating teams will develop and present innovative solutions to a panel of Chartered Global Management Accountants (CGMA designation holders) and leading industry professionals in accounting, finance, and business.
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The competition aims to build participants’ competence in business acumen, decision-making, teamwork, and analytical reasoning, while giving them the opportunity to showcase their potential as emerging industry leaders.
Speaking on the initiative, Associate Director for Nigeria at CIMA, Ijeoma Anadozie, emphasized the institute’s unwavering commitment to nurturing young business professionals and preparing them for leadership roles in a rapidly evolving global economy.
“At CIMA, we are passionate about supporting the growth of future leaders in finance and business,” Anadozie said. “Hosting the third edition of the CGMA Business Leader Challenge in Nigeria is a proud moment for us, especially after the incredible response to last year’s competition, which brought together 57 ambitious teams from across the country.”
She explained that the challenge reflects CIMA’s mission to advance management accounting and leadership capacity development in Africa, particularly by equipping students with the skills and mindset required to excel in the dynamic business landscape.
“This competition is more than a test of knowledge; it’s an opportunity for students to experience real-world challenges, collaborate under pressure, and demonstrate their ability to make sound business judgments. It’s about building leaders who can drive growth, innovation, and accountability in their future workplaces,” she added.
The CGMA Business Leader Challenge serves as a bridge between academic learning and industry expectations, encouraging participants to integrate classroom theories with practical decision-making. Through case-based simulations, teams analyze complex business scenarios, develop strategic responses, and present recommendations to an expert jury.
In previous editions, the competition has produced standout student leaders who have gone on to pursue successful careers in corporate finance, consulting, and entrepreneurship. It has also deepened collaboration between Nigerian universities and professional institutions, enhancing the relevance of business education in preparing students for the global market.
Observers say this year’s expanded participation, with 60 teams drawn from 10 universities, reflects growing interest among young Nigerians in professional development and global business standards. The initiative also aligns with broader efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s human capital through professional certification and mentorship opportunities.
CIMA’s partnership with the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants (AICPA) continues to position the CGMA Challenge as one of the most respected platforms for young professionals to demonstrate competence, creativity, and leadership readiness.
The 2025 edition will feature multiple stages, including virtual and in-person assessments, before the top-performing teams proceed to the national finals later this year. Winners will receive professional development support, mentorship from industry leaders, and scholarships toward the CIMA Professional Qualification, which leads to the globally recognised CGMA designation.
The challenge has been lauded by education stakeholders for bridging the gap between academia and industry by providing practical exposure to students. Universities participating this year include some of Nigeria’s leading institutions known for excellence in accounting, business administration, and economics.
With growing emphasis on youth empowerment and employability, the CGMA Business Leader Challenge continues to play a vital role in shaping a new generation of innovative and ethical business leaders who can contribute to sustainable economic growth across Africa.
As the competition progresses, participants are expected to engage in rigorous research, strategic analysis, and dynamic presentations that reflect their grasp of modern business realities and their readiness to lead.
