Access Bank Plc has announced a new phase in its board leadership with the appointment of Mrs. Ifeyinwa Osime as Chairman of its Board, underscoring the group’s focus on governance continuity and long-term strategic execution as it expands across Africa and other international markets.
The appointment, which takes effect from February 2026, follows the receipt of all regulatory approvals and aligns with the company’s corporate governance framework.
Osime succeeds Mr. Paul Usoro, SAN, who retired on January 29, 2026, upon completing his approved regulatory tenure.
In a statement to shareholders, Access Holdings described Osime as a seasoned professional whose depth of experience in corporate governance, finance and strategic leadership positions her well to guide the board through the group’s next phase of growth.
The company noted that her emergence as chairman reflects its commitment to strong oversight, diversity at the highest level of leadership and institutional stability.
Osime brings extensive boardroom experience across financial services and other sectors. She joined the Board of Access Bank in November 2019 as an Independent Non-Executive Director and, until her elevation, chaired both the Board Human Resources and Sustainability Committee and the Board Governance, Nomination and Remuneration Committee.
Beyond Access Bank, she is a Director at Ebudo Trust Limited and a Partner at McPherson Legal Practitioners, where she advises on corporate and commercial legal matters while contributing to the firm’s strategic leadership.
Her previous board roles include Independent Non-Executive Director at Coronation Insurance Plc, Board Chairman of Coronation Life Insurance Company Ltd, and Non-Executive Director at Bank PHB (now Keystone Bank Limited).
Her professional affiliations include membership of the Nigerian Bar Association, Women Corporate Directors Nigeria Chapter, and the Chartered Institute of Directors Nigeria, where she serves on the Executive Committee of the Women Sectoral Group.
She is also actively engaged in mentoring young people and supports initiatives within the Autism and Developmental Delays Support Community, reflecting a strong commitment to inclusion and social impact.
Commenting on the appointment, Group Chairman, Mr. Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, CFR, described Osime as “a principled and experienced leader with a deep understanding of the Bank’s strategy and values.”
“She has demonstrated a strong commitment to the Bank’s vision and mission, and I am confident that, under her leadership, the Group will continue to advance its strategic objectives of delivering sustainable value to shareholders and other stakeholders, in pursuit of our vision to become the World’s Most Respected African Bank,” he said.
Aig-Imoukhuede also congratulated Mr. Usoro on the successful completion of his tenure, commending his exemplary leadership, dedication and significant contributions to the Group, while noting that he remains a valued member of the Access family.
