The appointment of Bolaji Agbede as Acting CEO of Access Bank Holdings marks a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s financial landscape. With over 27 years of experience spanning human resources, customer relationship management, and banking operations, Agbede’s expertise is setting new standards in leadership. Her academic journey began with a Bachelor’s in Mathematics and Statistics from the University of Lagos (1990). It culminated in an MBA from Cranfield University (2002), laying the groundwork for her remarkable career.
Born and raised in Nigeria, Agbede’s academic achievements created a foundation for her future success. Her degree in mathematics and statistics from the University of Lagos served as a cornerstone for her entry into the banking world.
Influencing strategic policies with the Access Bank Group.
Agbede’s career began in 1992 at Guaranty Trust Bank, where she started as an executive trainee. Her sharp analytical skills and relentless work ethic soon saw her rise through the ranks, and by 2001, she was a manager overseeing key banking operations.
In 2003, she took a bold step by becoming CEO of JKG Limited, a business consulting firm, where she further honed her leadership skills. Later that year, she joined Access Bank as Assistant General Manager, managing the bank’s portfolio of chemical trading companies. Her prowess in banking operations and customer relationship management quickly made her an indispensable asset.
Her career trajectory reached a new high in 2010 when she was appointed Human Resources (HR) Director for the Access Bank Group. In this role, she was instrumental in shaping the bank’s human capital strategy. Bolaji Agbede led the integration of teams during mergers and acquisitions. She also championed forward-thinking policies, including extended maternity leave, paternity leave, and the establishment of workplace crèches, setting new standards for employee welfare in Nigeria’s banking sector.
Under Agbede’s leadership, Access Holdings has undergone a significant transformation. Her strategic focus on financial inclusion and empowerment has reshaped the company and impacted the broader economic landscape. Her commitment to gender equality is reflected in the progressive policies she has championed, such as six months of maternity leave and paternity leave for fathers—policies now seen as benchmarks in corporate social responsibility.
A key architect in numerous successful mergers, including those involving Marina International Bank, Intercontinental Bank Plc, and Diamond Bank Plc, Agbede has played a vital role in navigating complex integrations. Her leadership in managing cultural transitions during these mergers was critical to Access Bank’s success and growth.
Impact beyond the boardroom
Agbede’s influence extends far beyond corporate boardrooms. She is a passionate mentor who guides future leaders and empowers women in finance. Through her leadership, Access Bank has implemented programs designed to enhance financial literacy and education, particularly empowering women. Agbede also serves on the ROWAA Widows Initiative and Propel Grad boards, further underscoring her dedication to fostering financial literacy and leadership.
Her work has not gone unnoticed. Agbede has twice been named HR Leader of the Year by HR People Magazine, a testament to her dedication to talent development and her transformative impact on the industry. The CEO’s legacy is one of trailblazing innovation and empowerment. Her role as acting CEO of Access Holdings represents a new era of leadership in Nigeria’s financial sector, which strongly emphasises inclusion, mentorship, and social responsibility. Her commitment to these values has left an indelible mark on the industry, and her influence continues to inspire a new generation of financial leaders.
With her extensive experience and visionary approach, Bolaji Agbede is shaping the future of Access Holdings and redefining the role of leadership in the financial sector. Her story is a powerful reminder that authentic leadership goes beyond personal achievement—empowering others to succeed. As she continues to steer the organisation toward new heights, her legacy as a champion of gender equality, financial inclusion, and leadership excellence remains intact.
