Access Holdings Plc has officially confirmed the appointment of Mr. Innocent Ike as the new Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer (MD/CEO), effective August 29, 2025. This announcement follows the successful acquisition of regulatory approval, marking a significant leadership transition for the financial holding company.
The appointment was disclosed in a formal statement submitted to the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX) and signed by the Company Secretary, Mr. Sunday Ekwochi. Mr. Ike will be stepping into the role previously held by Ms. Bolaji Agbede, who had been serving as the Acting Group MD/CEO for the past 18 months. Under her interim leadership, Ms. Agbede played a critical role in maintaining the company’s operational continuity and steering its strategic initiatives during a challenging period following the death of the former CEO.
As explained in the company’s statement, Ms. Agbede is stepping down from the acting MD/CEO position due to regulatory guidelines, which specify the minimum number of years of experience required for the CEO of a financial holding company. She will now return to her substantive role as Executive Director, Business Support.
During her tenure, Ms. Agbede was instrumental in stabilizing the company’s workforce and overseeing a smooth leadership transition. Notable achievements under her leadership include the successful execution of a N351 billion rights issue and the smooth coordination of two Annual General Meetings (AGMs). Her leadership not only sustained the company’s forward momentum but also reinforced its competitive advantage within the financial services industry.
Speaking on the leadership change, the Chairman of Access Holdings, Mr. Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, expressed enthusiasm about Mr. Ike’s appointment and profound appreciation for Ms. Agbede’s dedicated service. He acknowledged her significant contributions in navigating the company through both challenges and opportunities, noting that the leadership foundation she established has positioned the company for sustained success.