First Bank of Nigeria Limited has appointed Dr. Julius B. Omodayo-Owotuga as an Executive Director, a move aimed at strengthening the bank’s leadership capacity across finance, governance, risk management and strategic transformation.
The appointment, which took effect on May 13, 2026, was announced by First HoldCo Plc, the parent company of First Bank, and has received the approval of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).
According to the company, Dr. Omodayo-Owotuga brings over 24 years of experience spanning banking and financial services, infrastructure finance, power, oil and gas, audit and consulting. His appointment comes as First Bank continues to focus on governance, operational excellence, financial resilience and long-term sustainable growth.
Prior to his elevation, Dr. Omodayo-Owotuga served as a Non-Executive Director on the Board of First HoldCo Plc between 2021 and 2026, where he contributed to strategic oversight, risk management and corporate governance initiatives.
Former Geregu Power Executive
Before joining First Bank’s executive management team, Dr. Omodayo-Owotuga served as Deputy Chief Executive Officer of Geregu Power Plc, Nigeria’s first listed power generation company.
During his tenure, he played a significant role in strengthening governance structures, supporting enterprise transformation initiatives, enhancing operational efficiency and contributing to key financing transactions. He was also involved in the company’s landmark listing on the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX).
His experience in the power sector further complements his extensive background in finance and corporate transformation.
Leadership Experience Across Multiple Sectors
Dr. Omodayo-Owotuga previously held the position of Group Executive Director, Finance and Risk Management at Ardova Plc, formerly Forte Oil Plc. In that role, he led several strategic initiatives, including capital optimisation, balance sheet restructuring, treasury management and enterprise risk management.
His leadership contributed to strengthening the company’s financial position and improving long-term shareholder value through enhanced governance and operational efficiency.
He also played critical roles in major financing transactions, acquisitions, divestments and institutional restructuring programmes.
Strong Banking and Finance Background
Earlier in his career, Dr. Omodayo-Owotuga worked with Africa Finance Corporation (AFC), where he served as Asset and Liability Management Specialist and Deputy Treasurer after previously serving as Finance Manager.
As part of AFC’s pioneer team, he contributed to establishing the institution’s treasury operations, financial controls and funding structures while supporting key capital market and financing transactions.
His professional experience also includes roles at Standard Chartered Bank, KPMG Professional Services and MBC International Bank, now First Bank of Nigeria Limited.
Professional Credentials
Dr. Omodayo-Owotuga is a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) Charterholder 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 (IoD) Nigeria and holds a Doctorate in Business Administration, a Master of Business Administration and a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting.
His academic and executive education credentials include programmes at the University of Oxford’s Saïd Business School, IE Business School, Geneva Business School and the University of Lagos.
Strengthening First Bank’s Leadership Team
The appointment comes as First Bank continues to deepen its transformation agenda and strengthen its executive leadership team amid evolving opportunities in Nigeria’s banking sector.
With extensive experience in capital markets, treasury management, governance, risk management and institutional transformation, Dr. Omodayo-Owotuga is expected to contribute significantly to the bank’s strategic objectives and long-term growth ambitions.
