BoI acting MD bags African Banker Icon award

In recognition of the Bank of Industry’s support for the nation’s development and commitment of its board to the vision and agenda on industrialisation, the African Banker magazine has conferred the 2017 African Banker Icon award on BoI’s Acting Managing Director, Waheed Olagunju.

According to the organisers of the award, the ‘Icon’ category is awarded to an individual or institution for their outstanding contribution in the field of business, banking and finance.

The organisers explained that the awardees were chosen by the
awards committee, who had noted excellence in their area of expertise and for their works in helping to change the perception of Africa as
well as contributing to the establishment of best global best practices in the continent.

“In accordance with this accolade, the Committee has highlighted your leadership and tireless work at the Bank of Industry over the years.

You have played an invaluable role during a period when the bank
expanded its activities and which saw significant improvement in the overall performance of its activities.
“Your loyalty and your dedication to the cause have not gone unnoticed. You have been a champion of the missing middle, that industrial heartland we hear so much about but who are often ignored by other financial institutions and yet critical to the continent’s growth and development.

“Last but not least, the African Banker Awards Committee commends your personal integrity and your works to promote Nigeria and African SMEs in both African and international circles. Africa’s improved reputation today is in large part owed to the achievements of leaders like you, and the African Bankers wholeheartedly acknowledge your invaluable contributions to the political, economic and social
development of the continent”, the organisers added.

Now in its 11th edition, the African Banker Awards are organised by African Banker magazine and IC Events, and it is also designed to promote entrepreneurial excellence and world-class practices in banking and finance.

The awards honour the achievements of financial institutions and individuals who have contributed significantly to the reforms and modernisation of the continent’s banking and financial system.

The Icon award in the past, has been given to outstanding
individuals such as Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Adebayo Ogunlesi, and founder of the Ethiopian Commodities Exchange, Eleni Gabre-Madhin.