Wema Chairman resigns, takes up political appointment

Wema Bank Plc. has announced the resignation of its Chairman, Mr. Adeyinka Asekun from the Board following his nomination as an Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, which has now been confirmed by the Senate.

Asekun’s resignation was disclosed through a statement from the bank made available to the Daily Times.

According to the statement, Asekun’s resignation which takes immediate effect, was announced at the Bank’s Board meeting held on 10th May, 2017 and is a step in preparation for his new role in the service of the nation.

The Board accepted Asekun resignation and announced Mr. Babatunde Kasali, a non-executive director, as the new Chairman of the Board.

Mr. Asekun became the Chairman of Wema Bank in 2012. He played a leading role in the successful turnaround and transformation of the Bank which has culminated in the introduction of Africa’s first fully digital Bank (ALAT).

Other significant events that took place during Mr. Asekun’s tenure include; re-capitalization of the bank, the Bank’s return to profitability, Wema Bank’s corporate re-branding and the upgrade to a National Banking license from a Regional license.

“The Board expresses its profound gratitude to Mr. Asekun for his service and wishes him the best in his future endeavours.

According to a brief profile by the bank, Asekun’s successor, Mr. Kasali is a consummate professional with expertise in Audit, Risk Management, Compliance and Retail banking, spanning over 3 decades.

“He has served as General Manager and Regional Bank Head for United Bank for Africa Plc., a bank he joined in 1996.

“During his time at the bank, he held several positions such as; Chief Inspector, Regional Director and Divisional Director.

“He has also served as Managing Director of Resolution and Restructuring Company Limited, a subsidiary of the Asset Management Company of Nigeria (AMCON).

“Mr. Kasali has been a Non-Executive Director at UAC of Nigeria Plc. since March 27, 2013 and was a Non-Executive Director of UACN Property Development Company Plc., from January 13, 2010 to March 24, 2013. He had from February 2015 to November 26, 2015 served as a Non-Executive Director of Wema Bank Plc.

“Mr. Kasali is a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria. He graduated with B.Sc. (Hons) Degree in Economics from Manchester Metropolitan University, UK in 1977.

“The Board is confident that the appointment of Mr. Babatunde Kasali will lead to the continued transformation and growth of the Bank, particularly as the Bank positions itself as a market leader in Nigeria’s retail banking segment through technology and innovation.”