First Bank of Nigeria Limited has announced the appointment of Dr. Julius B. Omodayo-Owotuga as an Executive Director, reinforcing its leadership structure across finance, governance, risk oversight and strategic transformation as the lender advances its long-term growth agenda in 2026.
The appointment, which became effective on May 13, 2026, was confirmed by First HoldCo Plc and has received regulatory approval from the Central Bank of Nigeria, marking another key leadership development within one of Nigeria’s oldest financial institutions.
According to Brandspur Banking News Desk, the elevation reflects First Bank’s continued drive to deepen executive expertise in areas critical to banking stability, including capital management, enterprise risk, and operational efficiency.
First Bank of Nigeria Limited said the appointment aligns with its ongoing transformation strategy aimed at strengthening institutional resilience and sustaining competitive performance in an evolving financial services landscape.
Dr. Omodayo-Owotuga brings more than two decades of experience across banking, infrastructure finance, oil and gas, power, audit and consulting. He previously served as Deputy Chief Executive Officer of Geregu Power Plc, where he contributed to corporate governance reforms, operational improvements and landmark capital market activities, including its listing on the Nigerian Exchange.
His earlier executive portfolio includes senior leadership roles at Ardova Plc, where he managed finance and risk functions, driving restructuring programmes, treasury optimisation and strategic investment decisions that strengthened balance sheet performance.
He also built a strong foundation in financial services through roles at Africa Finance Corporation, Standard Chartered Bank, KPMG Professional Services and MBC International Bank, with expertise spanning asset management, treasury operations and structured finance.
A certified Chartered Financial Analyst and fellow of multiple professional institutes, including ICAN, CITN and the Institute of Credit Administration, he also holds advanced academic credentials in business administration and has completed executive programmes at global institutions such as Oxford Saïd Business School and IE Business School.
Central Bank of Nigeria approval of the appointment underscores the regulatory backing for the leadership transition as First Bank continues to prioritise governance strength, risk discipline and sustainable profitability within Nigeria’s competitive banking sector.
With his appointment, the bank is expected to further consolidate its strategic transformation agenda, leveraging his multi-sectoral experience to enhance financial stability, improve risk frameworks and support long-term value creation for shareholders.
