FAME Celebrates Women’s Leadership in Nigeria’s Banking Sector.

As Women’s Month continues, it’s important to recognise the outstanding female leaders who shape Nigeria’s financial sector. In an industry typically dominated by men, the story is shifting as ten women rise to the top, managing some of the country’s major financial institutions.

• Dr. Adaora Umeoji (Incoming CEO, Zenith Bank): Umeoji’s appointment is a key milestone for Nigeria’s banking system. Dr. Umeoji, who has an exceptional educational background from prestigious schools such as Harvard and Columbia Business Schools, offers a unique blend of expertise in law, accounting, and business administration to her new position.

• Miriam Olusanya (GT Bank): Miriam Olusanya’s promotion as Managing Director of GT Bank in July 2021 represents a shift towards gender diversity in leadership. With 26 years of experience with the bank, her strategic vision and dedication to financial inclusion are driving GT Bank’s sustained development.

• Yemisi Edun (FCMB): Yemisi Edun’s appointment as MD/CEO of First City Monument Bank in July 2021 is a testament to her remarkable journey in the banking industry. With a background in chemistry and international accounting and finance, she brings a unique perspective to FCMB, focusing on innovation and customer-centric solutions.

• Halima Buba (Sun Trust Bank): Halima Buba’s transition from Deputy General Manager at Ecobank Nigeria to MD/CEO of Sun Trust Bank in January 2021 highlights her dedication to entrepreneurship and SME development. Her passion for supporting small businesses is evident in initiatives like ‘SME Flash’, aimed at driving economic growth in Nigeria.

• Ireti Samuel-Ogbu (CitiBank): As the first female CEO of CitiBank Nigeria, Ireti Samuel-Ogbu brings extensive international banking experience to the Nigerian market. Her focus on innovation and technology is reshaping the banking landscape, providing customers with cutting-edge financial solutions.

• Dr. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe (Fidelity Bank): Dr. Onyeali-Ikpe’s appointment as GMD/CEO of Fidelity Bank in January 2021 marked a historic moment in the bank’s journey. With a background in law and extensive executive training from prestigious institutions worldwide, she is spearheading initiatives like PayGate Plus, driving Fidelity Bank’s digital transformation.

• Tomi Somefun (Unity Bank): Tomi Somefun’s leadership as MD/CEO of Unity Bank since August 2015 reflects her deep understanding of the banking sector. With over 35 years of experience, her focus on financial literacy and economic empowerment is driving Unity Bank’s mission to serve communities across Nigeria.

• Kafilat Araoye (Lotus Bank): Kafilat Araoye’s appointment as MD/CEO of Lotus Bank in 2020 underscores her extensive expertise in core banking functions. With over 30 years in the industry, her focus on ethical banking practices and social responsibility is shaping Lotus Bank’s strategic direction.

• Bukola Smith (FSDH Merchant Bank): Bukola Smith’s leadership as MD/CEO of FSDH Merchant Bank since April 2021 highlights her strategic execution and advocacy for women in finance. With nearly 30 years of experience, her focus on investment banking and financial structuring is driving FSDH Merchant Bank’s growth and success.

• Yetunde Oni (Union Bank): Yetunde Oni’s recent appointment as the first female MD/CEO of Union Bank in January 2024 marks a significant milestone in the bank’s history. With a background in economics and executive training from prestigious institutions like Oxford University, her leadership is poised to shape Union Bank’s strategic direction for years to come.

These women exemplify excellence and resilience, driving Nigeria’s banking sector toward greater heights while inspiring future generations of female leaders. Their leadership is not only reshaping the industry but also paving the way for more women to thrive in positions of leadership across various sectors of the economy.