Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX Group) celebrated the extraordinary contributions of its retired directors, whose visionary leadership played a pivotal role in shaping the evolution of Nigeria’s capital market.
The ceremony, which followed the Group’s 64th Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Lagos, brought together a distinguished gathering of regulatory leaders, government officials, traditional rulers, and members of the diplomatic community.
The event underscored NGX Group’s commitment to sustaining the legacy of innovation, operational excellence, and stakeholder engagement, principles championed by the honorees. Their foundational work continues to guide the Group’s mission to deliver long-term value and market growth.
The chairman of NGX Group, Umaru Kwairanga, paid tribute to their enduring impact, saying “we honor the remarkable men and women whose leadership, dedication, and foresight have left an indelible mark on our Exchange and Nigeria’s financial markets. Their legacies remain ingrained in our DNA and will continue to inspire our path forward.”
Commissioner for Finance, Lagos State, representing Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Abayomi Oluyomi emphasised the honorees’ broader economic influence.
“Their contributions extended beyond the Exchange, reinforcing Lagos’s position as Africa’s leading financial and economic hub,” he stated.
Director-general of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Dr. Emomotimi Agama, acknowledged their transformative role, saying “these distinguished leaders laid the groundwork for today’s dynamic, transparent, and globally competitive capital market. Their governance standards and bold decisions remain benchmarks for excellence.”
Also, Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, said, “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.”
Former president of the Nigerian Stock Exchange and chairman of Access Holdings Plc, Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede said “capital markets are the backbone of thriving economies. The progress we see today stems directly from these directors’ vision, integrity, and leadership, which established enduring governance standards.”
The group managing director/CEO of NGX Group, Temi Popoola added that “we honor not only the architects of our past but also the partners shaping our future. 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.”
With decades of collective service, the retired directors have propelled NGX Group into a modern, technology-driven exchange. Their contributions have strengthened governance, elevated investor confidence, and enhanced Nigeria’s capital market on the global stage, laying a robust foundation for sustainable growth and investment across Africa.
A poignant moment came with a tribute to the late former group chairman, Abimbola Ogunbanjo, whose leadership was instrumental in NGX’s demutualisation and modernisation. Other key figures, including former CEO of the Nigerian Stock Exchange and GMD/CEO of NGX Group, Oscar Onyema, were also celebrated for steering the Exchange through landmark transformations.