Addis Ababa, March 15
Dr. Adesola Kazeem Adeduntan, Chief Executive Officer of FirstBank Group, has been honored with the distinguished Lifetime Achievement Award in Banking at the 12th African Persons of the Year Ceremony. This prestigious recognition celebrates Dr. Adeduntan’s exceptional contributions to the banking sector, both domestically and internationally.
With a wealth of experience in commercial and investment banking, Dr. Adeduntan has demonstrated unparalleled leadership throughout his illustrious career. He has led one of the most extensive transformation initiatives in sub-Saharan African financial services, aiming to elevate FirstBank Group to market preeminence. Under his digital-focused strategy, the bank has witnessed remarkable growth, with customer accounts soaring from 10 million in 2015 to over 42 million. Additionally, FirstBank Group has become the second-largest card issuer in Africa and established the continent’s most extensive bank-led Agent Banking Network, boasting over 233,500 agents.
Having spent nearly three decades in the banking industry, Dr. Adeduntan has held pivotal roles in various esteemed institutions. He has served as the Executive Director and Chief Financial Officer of FirstBank, as well as Director and pioneer Chief Financial Officer/Business Manager of Africa Finance Corporation, among other senior positions. His dynamic leadership and strategic prowess have played a crucial role in driving growth and innovation across these organizations.
Dr. Adeduntan’s remarkable contributions to banking and finance have garnered him widespread recognition and accolades. He has received esteemed awards such as Forbes Best of Africa – Outstanding Leader in Africa and African Banking Personality of the Year, highlighting his significant impact and influence in the sector.
The Lifetime Achievement Award in Banking recognizes Dr. Adesola Kazeem Adeduntan’s excellence and inspiration within the African banking community. His visionary leadership, strong commitment to innovation, and zeal to drive positive change continue to shape the future of banking in Africa and beyond.
The African Leadership Persons of the Year (POTY) Ceremony, organized by the African Leadership Magazine, serves as a prestigious platform for honoring people-centered leadership and individuals championing a pan-African agenda. The event highlights the contributions of exceptional leaders who are driving Africa’s socio-economic growth and development forward.
Among the exclusive dignitaries confirmed to attend the ceremony are His Excellency William Ruto, President of the Republic of Kenya; His Excellency George Weah, former President of Liberia; Hon. Cllr. Fonati Koffa, Speaker of the Liberia House of Representatives; His Excellency Rodrigo Guzmán Barro, Ambassador, Embassy of Chile in Addis Ababa; Hon. Dr. Kailesh Jagutpal, Minister of Health and Wellness, Mauritius, and other notable figures from across Africa.
African Leadership Magazine, published by the African Leadership Organization (UK), has been dedicated to showcasing the best of Africa to a global audience for over 16 years. Through quality Afro-positive content, trade facilitation, business networking platforms, and public sector training and consulting, the organization aims to advance African opportunities globally.
