By 
The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has appointed a new full board of directors for Polaris Bank, marking a significant transition in the bank’s growth trajectory and highlighting the achievements of its current leadership. This move is seen as a testament to Polaris Bank’s promising future and its strategic repositioning under new management.
Leading the 10-member board is Dr. Kassim Gidado, who will serve as board chairman. The newly appointed non-executive directors include Dr. Akwa Okon, Mallam Umar Ambursa, Mrs. Ayaba Ayo-Joseph, Mrs. Ibironke Giwa-Amu, and Dr. Christopher Onosode. This board will offer strategic guidance to the executive management team, which includes Mr. Kayode Lawal as Managing Director, Mr. Chris Ofikulu as Executive Director for Retail and Commercial Banking, Mrs. Abimbola Ozomah as Executive Director for Corporate & Investment Banking, and Mr. Sharafadeen Muhammed as Executive Director for Operations.
Industry analysts have noted that this complete board, combined with a stronger management team, enhances public confidence in Polaris Bank’s future. The bank’s stable leadership and consistent improvements in operational performance highlight its readiness to maintain a leading role in Nigeria’s post-recapitalization banking landscape.
These appointments also reflect a broad endorsement of the strategic business re-engineering spearheaded by Kayode Lawal, whose leadership has driven impressive yet understated growth within the bank.
Commenting on the appointments, Lawal expressed his confidence in the diverse skills and experience the new board members bring. “We are thrilled to welcome these seasoned professionals to the board of Polaris Bank. Their diverse expertise and leadership qualities will be invaluable as we drive our strategic initiatives aimed at strengthening our position in the industry,” he stated. Lawal emphasized that this marks a pivotal moment in Polaris Bank’s ongoing efforts to achieve sustained growth and deliver exceptional value to stakeholders.
Dr. Kassim Gidado, the newly appointed chairman, brings over 35 years of expertise in engineering, project management, and strategic development to the board. He has held prestigious roles, such as Group Managing Director at MAG Group Limited, and has advised governments and industries on infrastructure development and procurement. His leadership is expected to significantly enhance Polaris Bank’s trajectory, leveraging his experience in public-private partnerships and strategic growth.
Dr. Akwa Okon, a Chartered Accountant and legal expert with a rich background in finance, previously held leadership roles at the Niger Delta Development Commission and Akwa Savings and Loans Limited. His experience in managing turnarounds in the financial sector will provide critical support to Polaris Bank’s transformation.
Mallam Umar Ambursa brings over 30 years of experience in banking and consulting, including a distinguished tenure at the Central Bank of Nigeria. Known for his risk management expertise, Ambursa’s deep knowledge of banking operations will further strengthen Polaris Bank’s governance structure.
Mrs. Ayaba Ayo-Joseph, a seasoned banker, played a pivotal role during the transition of Bank PHB, ensuring operational continuity and driving profitability. Her extensive background in corporate governance and strategy will support Polaris Bank’s commitment to sustainable growth and adherence to best practices.
Mrs. Ibironke Giwa-Amu, with her extensive experience in financial services, real estate, and corporate restructuring, brings valuable insights into corporate banking initiatives. Her leadership in business process re-engineering and real estate development will enhance Polaris Bank’s strategic initiatives.
Dr. Christopher Onosode, with over 30 years of expertise in business systems, policy analysis, and operations, adds further depth to the board. His experience with multinational corporations and financial institutions positions him as a key contributor to the bank’s long-term success.
The executive management team, led by Mr. Kayode Lawal, continues to drive Polaris Bank’s transformation. Lawal, with over three decades of banking experience, brings a wealth of expertise in corporate and investment banking. His leadership, alongside the board’s strategic oversight, positions Polaris Bank for accelerated growth in the Nigerian banking industry.
Mr. Chris Ofikulu, the Executive Director for Retail and Commercial Banking, has over 30 years of banking experience and has held key leadership roles at UBA Ghana and Diamond Pension Fund Custodian Limited. His strong leadership in retail and commercial banking will drive continued growth for Polaris Bank.
Mrs. Abimbola Ozomah, Executive Director for Corporate & Investment Banking, brings vast experience in managing high-revenue portfolios for Citibank Nigeria. Her expertise in sectors such as oil & gas, manufacturing, and technology is expected to enhance Polaris Bank’s corporate banking initiatives.
Mr. Sharafadeen Muhammed, the Executive Director for Operations, has over 15 years of experience in financial planning and analysis, having served as Citibank Nigeria’s Chief Financial Officer. His strategic insight and operational excellence will play a critical role in Polaris Bank’s ongoing development.
With this new leadership structure, Polaris Bank is well-positioned to drive sustained growth and solidify its status as a leading player in Nigeria’s banking industry.
Comments