Ifeyinwa Osime Takes Over as Chairman of Access Holdings Board

Access Holdings Plc has announced the appointment of Ifeyinwa Osime as the new Chairman of its Board, succeeding Paul Usoro following necessary regulatory approvals and in accordance with the corporate governance framework of the organization.

This appointment represents a notable shift in leadership for the financial services company, which will officially take effect in February 2026. Osime takes over from Paul Usoro, SAN, who retired on January 29, 2026, after his tenure limit imposed by regulation came to an end.

In a formal statement to shareholders, Access Holdings highlighted that Osime is a skilled professional with extensive expertise in governance, finance, and strategic oversight. The company affirmed that her selection is indicative of its commitment to robust board governance, diversity, and continuity, all while expanding its operations across Africa and into other international markets.

Widely acknowledged for her distinguished background in financial services and corporate governance, Osime has held significant board and executive positions across various sectors. Her wealth of experience is expected to enhance Access Holdings’ long-term growth plans, risk management strategies, and stakeholder engagement initiatives.

Osime first joined Access Bank's Board in November 2019 as an Independent Non- Executive Director. Before her latest appointment, she chaired both the Board of Human Resources and the Sustainability Committee as well as the Governance, Nomination, and Remuneration Committee. Additionally, she serves as a Director at Ebudo Trust Limited and is a partner at McPherson Legal Practitioners, where she focuses on corporate and commercial legal matters while also guiding the firm's leadership and strategy. Her past board experience includes roles as an Independent Non-Executive Director at Coronation Insurance Plc, Chair of Coronation Life Insurance Company Ltd, and Non-Executive Director at Bank PHB, now known as Keystone Bank Limited.

Mrs. Osime is affiliated with several professional organizations including the Nigerian Bar Association, the Women Corporate Directors Nigeria Chapter, and the Chartered Institute of Directors Nigeria, where she serves on the Executive Committee of the Women Sectoral Group. In addition to her professional commitments, she actively mentors youth and is involved in the Autism and Developmental Delays Support Community, demonstrating her dedication to social inclusion and impact.

Reflecting on her appointment, Mr. Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, CFR, the Group Chairman, remarked, “Mrs. Osime is a principled and experienced leader with a thorough understanding of the Bank’s strategy and values. She has showcased a strong commitment to the Bank’s mission, and I believe that under her guidance, the Bank will continue to pursue its strategic goals of delivering sustainable value to shareholders and stakeholders as we strive to become the World’s Most Respected African Bank.”

The Group Chairman also extended his congratulations to Mr. Usoro on his successful tenure, recognizing his exemplary leadership and substantial contributions to the Group while wishing him well in his future endeavors. He emphasized that Usoro will continue to be a valued part of the Access family.