At the ceremony held on Thursday, the chairman of the NGX
Group, Dr Umaru Kwairanga, described the late Ogunbanjo as not only a father
but a patriarch, an elder statesman, philanthropist, legal luminary, and a
corporate titan.
He said, “Chief Ogunbanjo’s legacy is woven into the very
fabric of the Nigerian corporate landscape. On the corridors of the Nigerian
Exchange Group, his presence was not just influential but transformative. As a
guiding force on the Council of the Nigerian Stock Exchange, he played a
pivotal role in shaping the direction of NSE, and his impact reached far beyond
the confines of boardrooms.
“It is impossible to discuss Chief Ogunbanjo’s contributions
without acknowledging the pivotal role his firm played in the incorporation of
NSE. His expertise, foresight, and commitment laid the groundwork for an
institution that has become a cornerstone of our nation’s financial
architecture. Today, we mourn his physical absence, but we also celebrate the
enduring legacy that continues to shape the trajectory of NGX Group.”
He added that Ogunbanjo was known, not only for his
corporate acumen but also as one of Nigeria’s most distinguished corporate
lawyers.
“His influence extended into this realm, where he championed
initiatives that set new standards and positively impacted countless companies.
His commitment to legal reforms was about fostering an environment where
businesses could thrive and contribute to the broader growth of the private
sector.
“As we remember the late Chief, we cannot overlook his
philanthropic endeavours. His benevolence reached far and wide, touching the
lives of communities that were fortunate enough to benefit from his generosity.
Today, as we mourn his passing, let us also celebrate the lives that were
uplifted by his compassion and commitment to making a meaningful difference.
“While the void created by Chief Ogunbanjo’s departure is
profound, we find solace in knowing that his legacy is long-lasting. The
principles he stood for—integrity, excellence, and a commitment to the greater
good—remain etched in the annals of our corporate history. His wisdom will
continue to guide us, and his achievements will inspire generations unborn,”
the NGX Group chairman.
Kwairanga encouraged the gathering to uphold the value that
the late icon lived by saying, “In bidding farewell to Chief Ogunbanjo, let us
not only remember the man but also the values he held dear, carry forward his
torch, upholding the ideals of integrity, resilience, and unwavering commitment
to excellence that defined his remarkable life.”
The event was chaired by the former president of the
Nigerian Stock Exchange, Goodie Ibru. The president and chairman of Council,
Chartered Insitute of Stockbrokers, Mr. Oluwole Adeosun and the chairman, of
the Association of Securities Dealing Houses of Nigeria, Mr. Sam Onukwue, were
among the dignitaries present at the event.
Ogunbanjo’s firm handled the incorporation of the Nigerian
Stock Exchange before it morphed into the NGX. The late corporate lawyer died
in early October aged 99.