Access Holdings Plc has reinforced its commitment to inclusive and strategic leadership with the appointment of Mrs. Ibironke Adeyemi as an Independent Non-Executive Director. The move, approved by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), became effective on April 15, 2025, and reflects the company’s broader objective of deepening governance capacity and expertise at the Board level.
With over three decades of professional experience in finance, education, and corporate governance, Mrs. Adeyemi brings a multi-sectoral perspective that aligns with Access Holdings’ long-term vision for value creation and social impact. Her background in both private and non-profit sectors signals a deliberate shift toward leadership that is as diverse in thought as it is in representation.
Group Chairman Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede welcomed the appointment, emphasizing its significance in promoting inclusive governance. “Her appointment underscores our commitment to enhancing the diversity and depth of expertise within our Board. With her addition, we are proud to have four accomplished women among our nine-member Board, reinforcing our belief in the value of inclusive leadership,” he stated.
Currently serving as Managing Director of Chrisland Schools Limited, Mrs. Adeyemi has played a pivotal role in shaping one of Nigeria’s leading educational institutions. She also holds board positions at Chrisland University, the Victor and Winifred Awosika Foundation, and Holy Trinity Hospital—organizations that mirror her passion for social entrepreneurship and educational development.
Earlier in her career, Mrs. Adeyemi sharpened her financial acumen at Peat Marwick Ani & Ogunde (now KPMG Professional Services), and later made her mark as an Executive Director at Chemo-Pharma Laboratories, driving both financial and operational growth. Her academic achievements include a Bachelor’s Degree in Economics, a Postgraduate Diploma in Education, and a Master’s Degree in Educational Administration and Planning, all from the University of Lagos. She has also completed executive programs at Harvard Business School and Lagos Business School.
A chartered accountant for over 30 years, Mrs. Adeyemi is a member of the Chartered Institute of Directors, Nigeria, and Rotary International, underscoring her commitment to ethical leadership and community service.
The Board restructuring also includes the resignation of Mr. Oluseyi Kumapayi, FCA, effective March 11, 2025, following three years of service as a Non-Executive Director. His departure aligns with the CBN’s Corporate Governance Guidelines for Financial Holding Companies, which limit Board composition to nine directors, including three independent non-executive members.
Although stepping down from the Access Holdings Board, Mr. Kumapayi will continue his executive leadership role within Access Bank Plc’s African subsidiaries. The company expressed its appreciation for his strategic input and financial stewardship over the years.
With these leadership changes, Access Holdings continues to position itself as a progressive and resilient financial institution, leveraging a diverse and seasoned Board to steer sustainable growth and economic impact.