Kwairanga, Otudeko, Aig-Imoukhuede, Others Pay Tribute to Ogunbanjo
Kayode Tokede
The capital market communities, yesterday held an Afternoon Tributes and Closing Gong Ceremony in honour of its pioneer Group Chairman of the Nigerian Exchange Group Plc (NGX Group), Otunba Abimbola Ogunbanjo.
Otunba Ogunbanjo who served as the President of the National Council of the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) from 2017 to 2021, passed away on February 9th, 2024, in the USA.
Among the distinguished speakers who graced the occasion were: Chairman of Honeywell Group and former President of the Nigeria Stock Exchange, Dr. Oba Otudeko; Chairman of Coronation Group, Mr. Aigboje Aig-Imuokhuede ; Chairman of the Nigerian Exchange Group, Alhaji (Dr) Umaru Kwairanga and Group Chief Executive Officer of NGX Group, Mr. Temi Popoola among other notable personalities.
Giving his welcome address, the Group Chairman, Nigerian Exchange Group, Alhaji Umaru Kwairanga encapsulated the essence of Bamofin Ogunbanjo’s profound impact, emphasizing his pivotal role in steering the successful completion of the demutualization process within the Group.
Kwairanga hailed Ogunbanjo as not merely a leader, but a beacon of light and a guiding force within the community, underscoring his instrumental contribution to reshaping the Group’s trajectory in the West African sub-region.
According to him, “His dedication to the advancement of our capital market is an unwavering commitment to excellence, and his profound impact on the lives of those around him are testament to his remarkable character and leadership.”
He noted that during the tenure of Otunba Ogunbanjo, the group successfully completed the demutualization process embarked on by the past President.
“As we reflect on his life and legacy, we are reminded of the lives he touched and the countless minds he inspired, including my humble self.
“His memory will forever be cherished in our hearts. To the Ogunbanjo’s family, we extend our deepest condolences. We recognize the profound loss you have lost and we stand with you in this time of grief,” he said.
Oba Otudeko shared poignant recollections of Ogunbanjo, portraying him as an adroit gentleman whose simplicity, brilliance, and doggedness were instrumental during the demutualization process.
Aig-Imuokhuede, reflected on the unparalleled commitment demonstrated by Ogunbanjo throughout the demutualization process, extolling his remarkable service to the industry. “You served the world in a way only few could do,” Aig-Imuokhuede remarked, paying homage to Ogunbanjo’s indelible legacy and wishing him eternal peace.
Reflecting on Ogunbanjo’s legacy, former Chairman of NGX, Mr. Abubakar Mahmoud lauded his patriotism and commitment to national development, while Mr. Olusola Adeosun, President and Chairman of Council at the Chartered Institute of Stockbrokers, expressed deep sorrow at the loss, emphasizing Ogunbanjo’s magnetic personality and profound impact on the institute.
The Group CEO of NGX Group echoed the sentiments of admiration and gratitude, highlighting Ogunbanjo’s unwavering dedication to the exchange’s success and seamless leadership transitions.
Chairman of the Association of Securities Dealers, Mr. Sam Onukwue hailed Ogunbanjo’s transformative leadership and global perspective, crediting his strong legal acumen and industry experience in navigating the exchange’s restructuring.
Echoing sentiments of admiration, Mr. Darren Bennett-Voci, CEO of Beta Glass Plc, paid tribute to Ogunbanjo’s leadership and professionalism, crediting his strategic guidance during challenging times.
The former Chairperson of NGX Real Estate, Erelu Angela Adebayo fondly recalled Ogunbanjo’s unwavering commitment to Nigeria’s progress, portraying him as a patriot who left an indelible mark on the industry.
