LAGOS, NIGERIA – First Bank of Nigeria Limited has announced the appointment of Dr Julius B. Omodayo-Owotuga as Executive Director, effective May 13, 2026, following regulatory approval from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

The appointment marks a significant addition to the leadership team of First Bank of Nigeria Limited, reinforcing the institution's commitment to strong corporate governance, operational excellence, financial sustainability, and long-term growth.

Julius Omodayo-Owotuga Brings Over 24 Years of Banking and Finance Experience

Dr Omodayo-Owotuga joins the executive leadership of First Bank with more than 24 years of experience across banking, financial services, infrastructure finance, power generation, oil and gas, audit, and consulting.

Before his appointment, he served as a Non-Executive Director on the board of First HoldCo Plc between 2021 and 2026, where he contributed to strategic oversight and governance initiatives.

His extensive professional background includes leadership positions in some of Nigeria's most prominent financial and corporate institutions, positioning him as a seasoned executive with deep expertise in finance, risk management, treasury operations, corporate governance, and business transformation.

Key Role in Geregu Power's Growth and NGX Listing

Prior to joining First Bank's executive management team, Dr Omodayo-Owotuga served as Deputy Chief Executive Officer of Geregu Power Plc, Nigeria's first publicly listed power generation company.

During his tenure, he played a major role in strengthening corporate governance structures, improving operational efficiency, leading financing transactions, and supporting the company's successful listing on the Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX).

His contributions helped position Geregu Power as one of Nigeria's leading players in the power sector while enhancing investor confidence through improved governance and financial discipline.

Leadership Experience at Ardova Plc and Africa Finance Corporation

Dr Omodayo-Owotuga also previously served as Group Executive Director for Finance and Risk Management at Ardova Plc, formerly known as Forte Oil Plc.

In that role, he led several strategic initiatives including corporate restructuring, capital raising programs, treasury optimization, enterprise risk management frameworks, and governance enhancement projects that contributed to long-term shareholder value creation.

His career spans notable institutions including Africa Finance Corporation, Standard Chartered Bank, KPMG Professional Services, and First Bank itself, formerly known as MBC International Bank.

These experiences have provided him with significant expertise in institutional finance, regulatory compliance, corporate advisory services, financial controls, and strategic financial management.

Academic and Professional Qualifications

Dr Omodayo-Owotuga is widely recognized for his strong academic and professional credentials.

He is a CFA Charterholder, a KPMG-trained accountant, and a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN), and the Institute of Credit Administration.

He is also a member of the Institute of Directors Nigeria and holds the Certified Management Accountant designation.

Academically, he possesses a Doctorate in Business Administration, a Master of Business Administration, and a Bachelor's degree in Accounting. He is an alumnus of Saïd Business School, IE Business School, Geneva Business School, and the University of Lagos.

First Bank Strengthens Leadership for Future Growth

The appointment comes at a time when Nigeria's banking sector continues to evolve amid regulatory reforms, digital transformation, and increased competition.

By bringing an accomplished finance and governance professional into its executive leadership team, First Bank aims to strengthen its capacity to execute strategic priorities, drive sustainable growth, enhance stakeholder value, and maintain its leadership position within Nigeria's financial services industry.

Industry observers view the appointment as a move that aligns with First Bank's broader strategy of strengthening leadership capabilities while navigating emerging opportunities across Nigeria's banking and economic landscape.