Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, CON, Chairman of Access Holdings Plc and Coronation Group, has been awarded the prestigious African Banker Lifetime Achievement Award.
This award was presented during the African Banker Awards gala dinner in Nairobi, Kenya, held alongside the 2024 Annual Meetings of the African Development Bank.
Aig-Imoukhuede‘s career is a testament to his commitment to transforming the African banking and financial sectors. With over three decades of exceptional leadership, he has achieved numerous transformative accomplishments.
Under his leadership from 2002 to 2013, Access Bank transformed from a regional player into a top-five Nigerian bank.
He further expanded its reach to nine other African countries and the UK, solidifying its position as a major African financial force.
Fueled by a vision of making wealth creation accessible across Africa, he established Coronation Group. This diversified conglomerate, spanning investment, lending, and insurance, operates in Nigeria and beyond, leaving its mark on the African financial landscape.
Commenting on the award, Aig-Imoukhuede said, “This award honours the collective efforts of over ten thousand talented individuals,mostly Africans whom I have had the privilege to work with throughout my journey.
“As professionals, recognition spurs us to strive for greater levels of excellence. I am deeply humbled and motivated to continue contributing to Africa’s growth and development.”
Omar Ben Yedder, Group Publisher & Managing Director of African Banker, praised Aig-Imoukhuede’s career achievements.
“We would like to honour your remarkable career achievements as a leader in Africa,” Ben Yedder said.
“Today, Access Bank stands as a behemoth in African banking. As brilliantly described in your book, ‘Leaving the Tarmac’ Access Bank started its life as a third-tier bank, but your visionary leadership, as well as that of the late Herbert Wigwe, transformed it into an institution that commands immense respect and admiration.”
As part of the celebration of his contributions to African financial markets, the astute banker visited President William Ruto at the State House in Nairobi. Their discussions focused on strengthening financial markets, enhancing public sector effectiveness, and fostering sustainable economic growth across Africa.
Reflecting on this visit, Aig-Imoukhuede said: “Meeting with President Ruto inspired me with our shared commitment to driving economic growth and sustainable development across Africa. Our discussions reinforced the critical role of collaborative leadership and robust financial institutions in nation-building.”
Aig-Imoukhuede’s influence extends beyond banking through the Aig-Imoukhuede Foundation and its subsidiaries. Alongside his wife, Ofovwe, they manage a dedicated $100 million family commitment. The foundation, encompassing the Africa Initiative for Governance and the Aig-Imoukhuede Institute, tackles critical issues: developing Nigeria’s future leaders, transforming public service efficiency, and improving access to quality primary healthcare.
His decade of achievements in banking and beyond is celebrated with the African Banker Lifetime Achievement Award. His enduring commitment to nation-building, sustainable development, and transformative leadership continues to inspire and drive positive change across Africa.
