The Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, has presided over the historic leadership transition at the African Export–Import Bank (Afreximbank), where Dr. George Elombi was inaugurated as the Bank’s fourth President and Chairman of the Board in a ceremony held in Cairo, Egypt.
The event marked a significant milestone in Africa’s financial landscape, reaffirming Afreximbank’s pivotal role in advancing trade integration, industrialisation, and inclusive growth across the continent.
As Chairperson of the Bank’s General Meeting, Edun commended the outgoing President, Professor Benedict Oramah, for ten years of visionary leadership that strengthened the Bank’s financial base and deepened Africa’s economic resilience.
He particularly lauded initiatives such as the Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS) and the AfCFTA Adjustment Fund, which have enhanced trade opportunities for Nigerian enterprises by simplifying cross-border payments and expanding access to growth capital.
Describing the leadership change as a symbol of Africa’s growing self-reliance, the Minister said the appointment of Dr. Elombi ensures continuity in Afreximbank’s mission to empower the private sector and drive sustainable development.
For Nigeria, Edun noted, the transition strengthens access to continental financing mechanisms and aligns with the government’s ongoing economic reform and export diversification agenda.
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