Despite regulatory pressures, recapitalization expectations, and past sector shocks, Nigeria’s banking industry remains one of the strongest in Africa. The resilience of the sector is largely driven by experienced executives steering major commercial banks through innovation, digital expansion, and regional growth.
Access Bank Plc – Roosevelt Ogbonna
Roosevelt Ogbonna is the Managing Director/CEO of Access Bank Plc, following the passing of former Group CEO Herbert Wigwe in 2024. Ogbonna, a seasoned banker with over three decades of experience, now oversees the bank’s Nigerian operations under Access Holdings, focusing on retail dominance and continental expansion.
Guaranty Trust Holding Company (GTCO) – Segun Agbaje
Segun Agbaje remains Group CEO of GTCO, Nigeria’s most technology-driven banking group. Since transitioning GTBank into a holding company, Agbaje has strengthened its fintech, payments, and asset management subsidiaries while maintaining strong profitability.
Zenith Bank Plc – Adaora Umeoji
Zenith Bank is currently led by Adaora Umeoji, who became MD/CEO in 2024. She made history as one of the few female chief executives of a Tier-1 Nigerian bank, succeeding Ebenezer Onyeagwu. Her leadership focuses on governance, digital banking, and balance sheet strength.
First Bank of Nigeria – Olusegun Alebiosu
Olusegun Alebiosu is the MD/CEO of First Bank of Nigeria, appointed in 2024. With deep experience in risk management and corporate banking, he is tasked with restoring stability and market confidence in Nigeria’s oldest financial institution.
United Bank for Africa (UBA) – Oliver Alawuba
UBA is led by Oliver Alawuba, who has served as Group Managing Director/CEO since 2022. Under his leadership, UBA continues to expand its footprint across Africa and strengthen its international banking operations.
Fidelity Bank Plc – Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe
Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe is the MD/CEO of Fidelity Bank and one of Nigeria’s most influential female bankers. Since assuming office in 2021, she has driven consistent profit growth, capital raising, and digital transformation.
Sterling Bank Plc – Abubakar Suleiman
Abubakar Suleiman remains CEO of Sterling Bank, positioning the institution as a purpose-driven bank with strong focus on health, education, agriculture, and renewable energy financing.
Wema Bank Plc – Ademola Adebise
Ademola Adebise continues as MD/CEO of Wema Bank, Nigeria’s oldest indigenous bank. He has led Wema’s digital resurgence through ALAT and improved retail penetration.
Providus Bank – Walter Akpani
Walter Akpani is the Managing Director/CEO of Providus Bank, which absorbed Unity Bank in 2023. Providus has since expanded its national presence and strengthened its balance sheet.
Unity Bank no longer operates independently, having been acquired by Providus Bank. As such, it does not have a separate CEO in 2025.
Nigeria’s banking leadership landscape has changed significantly in recent years due to mergers, leadership transitions, and holding-company restructures. The 2025 list reflects current, verified CEOs, eliminating outdated names and aligning with Nigeria’s present financial reality
