FirstBank Ghana has appointed Duke K. Essiam and Folasade O. Adebayo as the new Non-Executive Directors to its Board.
The two new board members bring to their role, extensive experience and impressive track records in the financial services sector and it is expected that this will to significantly enhance the strategic direction of the bank, reinforcing its commitment to excellence and innovation.
These appointments come at a time 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. .
The Chairman of the Board, Kofo Majekodunmi, warmly welcomed the two to the board, expressing his enthusiasm regarding the new appointments.
He also expressed confidence that they will contribute to the continued success and growth of the bank.
"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," the Board Chairman stated.
Duke K. Essiam brings over 25 years of expertise in financial services and investment banking to the FirstBank Ghana Board.
Presently 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.
He 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.
Folasade O. Adebayo, comes to the role as 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.
Mrs Adebayo 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.
She holds degrees in Applied Economics and Law, as well as a Master’s in International Relations.
She is an active member of several esteemed organisations, including the Nigerian Bar Association and the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (UK).