Access Holdings Plc has officially appointed Innocent Ike as its new Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer (GMD/CEO), effective August 29, 2025, following regulatory approval.

The appointment marks the end of Bolaji Agbede’s 18-month tenure as Acting CEO, a period the company described as critical in maintaining stability and driving strategic growth after the passing of former CEO, Herbert Wigwe.

In a statement signed by Company Secretary Sunday Ekwochi, Access Holdings announced that Ms. Agbede will return to her role as Executive Director, Business Support, in line with regulatory requirements regarding experience for holding company chief executives.

Agbede’s Impact

During her stewardship, Agbede oversaw key milestones, including:

Steering the group through a turbulent transition period.

Successfully managing a ₦351 billion rights issue.

Ensuring seamless Annual General Meetings (AGMs).

Chairman Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede commended her leadership, describing her contributions as “invaluable in navigating challenges and opportunities.”

Mr. Ike brings over 30 years of experience in the financial services sector.

He previously served as Managing Director of Polaris Bank (2020–2022), where he launched the award-winning VULTe digital banking platform.

He also spent a decade at Access Bank, rising to the position of General Manager with responsibilities across corporate, commercial, and public sector portfolios.

On his appointment, Ike expressed excitement about the future:

“I am honoured to take on the role of Group CEO and to work alongside the talented team at Access Holdings. I look forward to building on the strong legacy of Herbert Wigwe and Bolaji Agbede while ensuring we continue to deliver exceptional value to shareholders and stakeholders.”