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Who is Bolaji Agbede?
Full Biography of Acting Access Bank CEO Bolaji Agbede – Bolaji Agbede has emerged as a prominent figure in the business world, notably as the acting Group Executive Officer of Access Holdings, a leading financial services conglomerate in Africa. Following the tragic demise of former Group CEO, Herbert Wigwe, in a helicopter crash, Agbede assumed this pivotal role on February 12, 2024, garnering attention across industries.
Full Biography of Acting Access Bank CEO Bolaji Agbede
Born on October 22, 1970, in Lagos, Nigeria, Bolaji Agbede hails from a humble background and was nurtured by her parents, whose identities remain undisclosed to the public. Raised with a focus on education and values, she exhibited academic excellence from an early age.
Bolaji pursued her undergraduate studies at the University of Lagos, graduating with a bachelor’s degree in Mathematics and Statistics in 1990. Her passion for learning led her to pursue further education, culminating in a Master of Business Administration degree from Cranfield University in the United Kingdom in 2022.
Bolaji Agbede’s commitment to professional development is further underscored by her membership in esteemed institutions such as the Chartered Institute of Management UK and the Chartered Institute of Personnel Management of Nigeria.
Bolaji Agbede’s Career Trajectory
Bolaji Agbede’s illustrious career in the banking sector spans over 27 years, marked by diverse roles and significant contributions to organizational growth. Commencing her professional journey in 1993 as a management trainee at First Bank of Nigeria, she honed her skills across various departments, including customer service, branch operations, and human resources.
In 2003, Agbede transitioned to Access Bank, assuming the role of Assistant General Manager. Her tenure at Access Bank was characterized by remarkable achievements, including the management of the bank’s chemical trading portfolio and subsequent elevation to the position of Head of Human Resources for the Access Bank Group in 2010.
Agbede’s tenure at Access Bank witnessed transformative initiatives, notably the integration of staff and culture from Marina International Bank, Capital Bank, Intercontinental Bank, and Diamond Bank into Access Bank. She spearheaded strategic programs such as the Access Women Network, Access Creche, and pioneering paternity and maternity leave policies.
Bolaji Agbede’s leadership prowess and contributions to the banking sector have earned her widespread recognition, including accolades such as the HR Leader of the Year by HR People Magazine in 2018 and 2019. Additionally, she was listed among the Top 50 Most Influential Women in Nigeria by Leading Ladies Africa in 2019.
Her expertise and insights have been sought after, with frequent engagements as a speaker and panelist at esteemed gatherings such as the Women in Banking and Finance Conference and the Africa CEO Forum.
Bolaji Agbede Husband, Kids and Marital Life
Bolaji Agbede’s personal life is shielded from the public eye, with minimal details available about her husband and family. She values privacy and opts not to disclose information about her marital relationship or her spouse’s identity. Similarly, the names and ages of her two children remain undisclosed, reflecting her commitment to maintaining a low profile in her personal affairs.
Despite the confidentiality surrounding her family life, Bolaji Agbede is renowned for her dedication as a mother, striving to strike a harmonious balance between her professional endeavors and familial responsibilities. She approaches motherhood with grace and unwavering commitment, exemplifying the qualities of a devoted parent.
In matters of faith, Bolaji Agbede identifies as a woman of religious conviction, subscribing to the beliefs of the Redeemed Christian Church of God. Her spiritual principles guide her actions and decisions, instilling a sense of purpose and direction in her life.
Furthermore, Bolaji Agbede actively participates in philanthropic endeavors, demonstrating a profound commitment to social causes and community development. She lends her support to various organizations focused on women empowerment, education, health, and societal progress.
Among these initiatives are the Women in Management, Business and Public Service (WIMBIZ), the Women in Successful Careers (WISCAR), and the Fate Foundation, where her involvement underscores her advocacy for positive change and societal advancement.
Physical Attributes of Bolaji Agbede:
- Height: Approximately 5 feet 6 inches.
- Weight: Approximately 65 kilograms.
- Eye Color: Brown.
- Body Measurements: Approximately 34-28-36 inches.
Access Holdings Appointment to Bolaji Agbede After Herbert Wigwe’s Death
Access Holdings, a prominent and diversified financial services conglomerate in Africa, has appointed Bolaji Agbede as its acting Group Chief Executive Officer, effective from February 12, 2024. This appointment follows the tragic passing of Herbert Wigwe, the former Group CEO, in a helicopter crash on February 11, 2024, along with three other senior executives of the group.
Bolaji Agbede is a seasoned banker with over 27 years of experience in the industry. She joined Access Bank in 2003 and ascended to the position of Head of Human Resources for the Access Bank Group in 2010. Throughout her tenure, she has played a pivotal role in the growth and transformation of the group, overseeing successful mergers and acquisitions. Her outstanding performance and leadership have earned her recognition and accolades within the banking sector.
In an official statement issued by the Board of Directors, heartfelt condolences were extended to the families and friends of the deceased, with Herbert Wigwe being commended for his visionary leadership. The Board expressed full confidence in Bolaji Agbede, describing her as a proven leader with a wealth of experience and a track record of delivering results.
The statement emphasized the Board’s belief that Bolaji Agbede will continue to uphold the vision and values of Access Holdings, steering the group towards greater heights of excellence and impact. The support and prayers of all stakeholders were requested as the organization navigates through this challenging period of loss.
Access Holdings stands as a leading financial services group in Africa, serving over 40 million customers across 12 countries. With a comprehensive range of products and services encompassing banking, insurance, asset management, pension, and microfinance, the group’s vision is to establish itself as the world’s most respected African bank.
Bolaji Agbede’s Net Worth
Bolaji Agbede’s net worth has seen a steady increase over the past few years:
- 2021: 8.5 million
- 2022: 9.5 million
- 2023: 10 million
Bolaji Agbede’s Future Plans And Challenges
Bolaji Agbede has encountered numerous challenges throughout her career journey, demonstrating remarkable courage and resilience in overcoming them. She has confronted discrimination, sexism, and stereotypes prevalent in the male-dominated banking sector. However, through her dedication and hard work, she has proven her competence and worthiness time and again.
Furthermore, she has experienced the profound loss of her mentor and friend, Herbert Wigwe, in a tragic accident. Despite this adversity, she has admirably stepped up to carry forward his legacy at Access Holdings.
Looking ahead, Bolaji Agbede has outlined a clear vision and strategy for Access Holdings, aiming to position it as the most esteemed African bank on the global stage. To realize this vision, she plans to capitalize on the group’s diverse and innovative range of products and services. Moreover, she intends to expand the group’s footprint across Africa and beyond, fostering excellence and value delivery to customers, shareholders, and stakeholders alike.
Additionally, she is committed to nurturing a culture of collaboration, inclusion, and empowerment within the organization, particularly among female employees and the youth. Through these concerted efforts, Bolaji Agbede aims to steer Access Holdings towards a future characterized by sustainable growth, impact, and recognition.
Conclusion
Bolaji Agbede’s journey from humble beginnings to a revered leader in the banking sector exemplifies resilience, determination, and unwavering dedication to excellence. As she assumes the role of acting Group Executive Officer at Access Holdings, her track record of success and visionary leadership positions her as a driving force for continued growth and innovation within the organization and the broader financial services landscape in Africa.
