FirstBank Ghana has appointed two new Non-Executive Directors to its Board namely Mr. Duke K. Essiam and Mrs. Folasade O. Adebayo.
Their extensive experience and impressive track records in the financial services sector are anticipated to significantly enhance the strategic direction of the Bank, reinforcing its commitment to excellence and innovation.
Duke K. Essiam brings over 25 years of expertise in financial services and investment banking to the FirstBank Ghana Board. Currently serving as the Managing Director at Quest Capital, Mr. Essiam has been pivotal in sourcing, executing, and managing diverse investment portfolios since 2014.
His prior experience includes key roles as a Senior Investment Officer at the International Finance Corporation (IFC) and as an Associate Investment Banker at Citigroup in New York, where he developed a keen understanding of global financial markets.
Mr. Essiam also holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of Pennsylvania and an MBA from Columbia University, equipping him with a unique blend of technical and business acumen.
He is also a licensed U.S. Investment Banking Representative, further underscoring his qualifications. Mr. Essiam enjoys playing golf and is an active member of the Achimota Golf Club, where he connects with fellow enthusiasts and strengthens community ties.
Mrs. Folasade O. Adebayo, on the other hand, is a distinguished legal practitioner with over three decades of experience across various sectors, including banking, finance, and corporate governance.
She began her career at Eko International Bank PLC, where she played essential roles in personnel administration and legal advisement.
Folasade has held significant positions in several banks and most recently served as the Administrative Controller of the Lekki Free Zone Development Company, where she was instrumental in navigating complex regulatory environments and enhancing operational efficiency.
Folasade holds degrees in Applied Economics and Law, as well as a Master’s in International Relations. Her educational background, combined with her extensive professional experience, positions her as a valuable asset to the FirstBank Ghana Board.
She is an active member of several esteemed organizations, including the Nigerian Bar Association and the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (UK). In her personal life, she enjoys traveling, cooking, and playing tennis, reflecting her dynamic personality and zest for life.
These appointments come at a pivotal moment for FirstBank Ghana, as the Bank bids farewell to former Non-Executive Director Olusegun Alebiosu, who has exited the Board following his elevation to the position of CEO for the FirstBank Group.
Mr. Alebiosu’s leadership and vision have been instrumental in steering the Bank towards sustained growth and success. His departure marks a significant transition, but it also opens the door for new perspectives and strategies to propel FirstBank Ghana into its next phase of development.
Mr. Kofo Majekodunmi, the Chairman of the Board, expressed his enthusiasm regarding the new appointments, stating, “we are thrilled to welcome Duke Essiam and Folasade Adebayo to our Board.
Their wealth of experience and diverse expertise will undoubtedly contribute to the continued success and growth of FirstBank Ghana. Together, we will drive innovation and deliver exceptional value to our clients, ensuring that we remain at the forefront of the banking industry, deepening our relationships and contributions to our stakeholders and communities.”
As FirstBank Ghana embraces these changes, the Board is confident that the new directors will play a crucial role in shaping the future of the Bank, fostering a culture of excellence, and enhancing stakeholder engagement. The Bank remains committed to its mission of providing outstanding financial services while maintaining the highest standards of corporate governance.
