Access Holdings Plc has announced the appointment of Ifeyinwa Osime as the new Chairman of its Board, following regulatory approvals and in line with the company’s corporate governance framework
The appointment marks a significant leadership transition for the financial services group and takes effect from February 2026. Osime succeeds the outgoing chairman, Paul Usoro, SAN who retired on January 29, 2026, upon the completion of his regulatory tenure limit.
In a statement to shareholders, Access Holdings described Osime as a seasoned professional with extensive experience in governance, finance and strategic leadership. Her appointment, the company said, reflects its commitment to strong board oversight, diversity and continuity as the group deepens its footprint across Africa and other international markets.
Osime is widely recognised for her background in financial services and corporate governance, having served in senior board and executive roles across multiple sectors. Her experience is expected to support Access Holdings’ long-term growth strategy, risk management framework and stakeholder engagement priorities.
Osime was appointed to Access Bank’s Board in November 2019 as an Independent Non-Executive Director. Prior to her recent appointment, she served as Chairman of the Board of Human Resources and Sustainability Committee as well as the Board Governance Nomination and Remuneration Committee. In addition, she is a Director at Ebudo Trust Limited and a Partner at McPherson Legal Practitioners, where she advises on corporate and commercial legal matters and contributes to the firm’s leadership and strategic direction. Her previous board experience includes serving as an Independent Non-Executive Director of Coronation Insurance Plc, Board Chairman of Coronation Life Insurance Company Ltd and Non-Executive Director, Bank PHB (now Keystone Bank limited).
Mrs. Osime is a member of the Nigerian Bar Association, Women Corporate Directors Nigeria Chapter, and Chartered Institute of Directors Nigeria, where she serves on the Executive Committee of the Women Sectoral Group. Beyond her professional responsibilities, she is committed to mentoring young people and is actively involved in the Autism and Developmental Delays Support Community, reflecting her dedication to inclusion and social impact.
Speaking on her appointment, the Group Chairman, Mr. Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, CFR, said, “Mrs. Osime is a principled and experienced leader with a deep understanding of the Bank’s strategy and values. She has demonstrated strong commitment to the Bank’s vision and mission, and I am confident that, under her leadership, the Bank will continue to advance its strategic objectives of delivering sustainable value to shareholders and other stakeholders in the pursuit of its vision to become the World’s Most Respected African Bank.”
The Group Chairman also congratulated Mr. Usoro on the completion of his tenure and for his exemplary leadership, dedication and significant contribution to the Group and wished him the best in his future endeavours noting that he shall remain a valued member of the Access family.
Melissa Enoch
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