In a statement released on Sunday, the African investment company highlighted the extensive professional experience both individuals bring, underscoring the strategic value they are expected to add to the group’s long-term growth and governance structure.
Veteran Banker and Governance Expert Joins Board
Sola Yomi-Ajayi, whose career spans more than three decades, was described by Heirs Holdings as a distinguished leader in financial services, governance, regulatory engagement, and enterprise risk management. Her appointment is seen as a significant addition to the company’s board, especially as corporate governance and regulatory compliance remain central to Africa’s evolving business environment.
The firm noted that Yomi-Ajayi previously served as an executive director at United Bank for Africa (UBA), where she also led the bank’s international operations as CEO and served as country CEO for UBA America. She currently sits on the boards of UBA United Kingdom and the Business Council for International Understanding (BCIU), and is a member of the OECD Blue Dot Network executive consultation group.
Her credentials also include membership in the Sub-Saharan Africa advisory committee of the US Export-Import Bank (US EXIM) and service on the board of trustees of the Institute of International Banking in the United States. Yomi-Ajayi has also earned a corporate governance certificate from Wharton Business School and a leadership certificate from Harvard Business School.
Energy and Corporate Transformation Specialist Added to Board
Obinna Ufudo, meanwhile, brings more than 30 years of leadership experience spanning banking, investment, energy, and corporate transformation. He previously served as executive director and chief operating officer at Heirs Holdings, positioning him as a familiar and strategic choice for the board.
The investment company noted Ufudo’s tenure as president and group CEO of Transnational Corporation of Nigeria (Transcorp), where he led a successful turnaround and played a pivotal role in the acquisition of the Ughelli Power Plant—an acquisition regarded as a landmark deal in Nigeria’s energy sector.
Ufudo is also the founder and chairman of Atiat Leasing Limited and co-founder and chairman of LoanBook Limited. His academic credentials include advanced executive and postgraduate qualifications from the Wharton School, University of Reading (where he was a Chevening scholar), and IESE Business School. He is also a fellow of the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria.
Leadership Endorsed by Chairman
Tony Elumelu, chairman of Heirs Holdings, said the appointments underscore the company’s commitment to strengthening governance and leadership as it expands its footprint across Africa.
“The depth of experience and proven track records of Sola Yomi-Ajayi and Obinna Ufudo will further support Heirs Holdings’ leadership in pan-African proprietary investment,” Elumelu said, highlighting the strategic importance of the new board members.