The Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX Group) has honoured its retired directors for their leadership and contributions to the growth and transformation of Nigeria’s capital market over the years. The recognition event, which followed the Group’s 64th Annual General Meeting held in Lagos, brought together top figures from the finance sector, government, traditional institutions, and the diplomatic community.
Among the key honourees were Mr. Oscar Onyema, former Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Stock Exchange and Group Managing Director/CEO of NGX Group, and the late Mr. Abimbola Ogunbanjo, a former Group Chairman. Both men played key roles in the demutualisation and modernisation of the Exchange, helping to reshape it into a globally competitive institution.
Group Chairman of NGX Group, Umaru Kwairanga, in his remarks at the event, paid glowing tribute to the directors for their dedication and leadership.
“Tonight, we honour the remarkable men and women whose leadership, dedication, and foresight have left an indelible mark on our Exchange and Nigeria’s financial markets,” Kwairanga said. “Their legacies remain ingrained in our DNA and will continue to inspire our path forward.”
The Lagos State Commissioner for Finance, Mr. Abayomi Oluyomi, who represented Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, also praised the honourees, noting that their work had a broader impact beyond just the NGX.
“Their contributions extended beyond the Exchange, reinforcing Lagos’s position as Africa’s leading financial and economic hub,” Oluyomi stated.
Director-General of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Dr. Emomotimi Agama, highlighted how the honourees laid the foundation for today’s capital market.
“These distinguished leaders laid the groundwork for today’s dynamic, transparent, and globally competitive capital market,” Agama said. “Their governance standards and bold decisions remain benchmarks for excellence.”
The event also received a royal endorsement from the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, who described the retired directors as trailblazers.
“As a custodian of tradition and progress, I celebrate these trailblazers whose wisdom and commitment have driven Nigeria’s economic advancement and inspired future generations,” the monarch said.
Former President of the Nigerian Stock Exchange and Chairman of Access Holdings Plc, Mr. Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, also spoke about the impact of the honourees on the capital market’s journey.
“Capital markets are the backbone of thriving economies,” Aig-Imoukhuede stated. “The progress we see today stems directly from these directors’ vision, integrity, and leadership, which established enduring governance standards.”
Closing the event, the Group Managing Director/CEO of NGX Group, Mr. Temi Popoola, expressed appreciation for the directors and reaffirmed the group’s commitment to their legacy.
“Tonight, we honour not only the architects of our past but also the partners shaping our future,” Popoola said. “To our retired directors, your legacies ignite the aspirations of tomorrow’s leaders. Together, we will continue building a market that embodies Nigeria’s innovation, resilience, and strength.”
The reception served as both a celebration and a moment of reflection on the journey of the Exchange and its future direction, with many attendees agreeing that the honourees had played major roles in placing Nigeria’s capital market on the global stage.
