By Dipo Olowookere
Mr Jeremy Awori has been chosen to replace Mr Ade Adeyemi as the chief executive of Ecobank Group, a statement from the financial institution on Monday has revealed.
Mr Awori was favoured for the position as Mr Ayeyemi prepares to retire as he nears 60 years of age, the disclosure added.
He is joining Ecobank Group following a 25-year-long career in the banking industry, with almost a decade leading Absa Bank Kenya Plc as the CEO & Managing Director.
Before joining Absa, Mr Awori held multiple leadership roles at Standard Chartered Bank across the Middle East and Africa. He brings a wealth of experience, skills, and industry know-how to the Ecobank Group.
He described his appointment as the group CEO of Ecobank as “a great honour,” saying he was humbled by the “opportunity to contribute to the continent’s economic development and financial integration with Ecobank Group.”
The incoming head of the bank’s management team also said he looks forward to “consolidating the transformation of Ecobank, a truly pan-African institution full of talented people while innovating to create value for all Ecobank’s stakeholders.”
The chairman of Ecobank Group, Mr Alain Nkontchou, described Mr Awori as a “highly respected leader in the banking industry with significant achievements in his previous capacities.”
“The board of directors strongly believes that his drive and a strong focus on results will be vital in steering the group in its next phase,” he added.
On the retirement of Mr Ayeyemi, the chairman thanked him for his immense contribution during his seven years at the helm of the Ecobank Group as Group CEO.
“Ade can be rightly proud of his success in leading the implementation of the Roadmap to Leadership strategy, navigating Ecobank through challenges, seizing opportunities, and positioning Ecobank for sustainable long-term growth. Ade’s deep knowledge, unrivalled vision, commitment and infinite passion made all the difference.
“It has been a real pleasure working with him. I count on his continuous support to ensure a smooth transition as we onboard Jeremy Awori as the new Group CEO,” he added.
On his part, Mr Ayeyemi expressed his deep gratitude for the opportunity to lead the Ecobank Group, describing it as a “privilege.”
Modupe Gbadeyanka 
Aduragbemi Omiyale