By Aduragbemi Omiyale
A prominent professional group in the finance sector known as the Securities and Investment Empowerment Network (SIEN) has lauded the appointment of Mr Jude Chiemeka as the chief executive of the Nigerian Exchange (NGX) Limited.
In a statement, the organisation said the vast experience of Mr Chiemeka in the financial sector would help to deepen the capital market, which some observers have claimed is not robust enough when compared with South Africa, the United Kingdom, the United States and other markets.
The group in the statement signed by its President, Dr Albert Ogunseyinde, described the appointment as a transformative force capable of deepening growth and further enhancing confidence in the market.
It further noted that the appointee’s extensive experience provides him with a deep understanding of the complexities of the financial markets and the strategic vision needed to navigate them.
“Chiemeka’s appointment as CEO of NGX is a testament to his exceptional leadership abilities and extensive industry experience.
“His deep understanding of the financial markets, coupled with his strategic acumen, makes him the ideal person to lead NGX into a new era of growth and innovation.
“His amiable leadership style, characterized by a commitment to excellence and a focus on stakeholder engagement, has earned him a reputation as a transformative leader.
“His previous roles have demonstrated his ability to drive organizational change, enhance operational efficiency, and foster a culture of transparency, accountability and empathy,” SIEN said through its leader.
The group further said Mr Chiemeka’s vision for NGX aligns with the broader objectives of positioning the exchange as a leading player in the global financial markets.
The bourse plays a crucial role in the nation’s economic development by facilitating capital formation and promoting investment opportunities.
“With Chiemeka at the helm, we are confident that NGX will continue to contribute significantly to the growth and diversification of Nigeria’s economy.
“There is now a palpable sense of optimism about the future of the Nigerian Exchange Limited as the financial community looks forward to a new era under Chiemeka’s leadership.
“With his extensive experience, strategic vision, and commitment to excellence, we believe Chiemeka is well positioned to steer NGX towards a path of sustained success and greater prominence in the global financial ecosystem,” it further stated.
Mr Chiemeka, a seasoned executive with a robust background in finance and management, brings over 30 years of professional experience in securities trading, asset management, and investment banking across African markets.
He joined the NGX as the Divisional Head of Trading Business in February 2019 and became the Divisional Head of Capital Markets in 2021. Before his current position, he was the Executive Director of Capital Markets at NGX.
Before joining the exchange, Mr Chiemeka worked at United Capital Securities Limited, Chapel Hill Denham Securities, RenCap Securities (Nigeria) Limited, Afrinvest West Africa Limited, and Dominion Trust Limited, where he began his career in 1994.