African Exchanges Group Picks NGX CEO Chiemeka as President

By Aduragbemi Omiyale

The chief executive of the Nigerian Exchange (NGX) Limited, Mr Jude Chiemeka, has been chosen to become the next president of the African Securities Exchanges Association (ASEA), effective September 30, 2026.

He succeeds the chief executive of the Rwanda Stock Exchange, Mr Pierre Célestin Rwabukumba, as ASEA moves to deepen integration and strengthen collaboration among African capital markets.

The group disclosed that the appointment of Mr Chiemeka comes at a critical time as it seeks to improve market liquidity, strengthen regional connectivity, accelerate technology adoption and promote cross-border capital flows across the continent.

Under his administration, ASEA will focus on deepening cross-border market integration by facilitating inter-exchange trading and cross-listing across African jurisdictions.

It will also prioritise digital innovation through the adoption of financial technology and modern market infrastructure to improve operational efficiency and expand retail investor access.

Other priorities include increasing capital mobility by strengthening links with global institutional investors while encouraging greater local participation, as well as promoting sustainable finance through efforts to standardise environmental, social and governance frameworks and green bond listings across member exchanges.

Reacting to his appointment, Mr Chiemeka described it as a privilege to lead ASEA at a time when market integration and technology-driven innovation are increasingly important to Africa’s economic development.

“It is a privilege to lead the African Securities Exchanges Association at a time when capital market integration and technology-driven innovation are paramount to unlocking Africa’s economic potential.

“Building on the solid foundation laid by my predecessor, Mr Pierre Célestin Rwabukumba, ASEA will continue to advocate for stronger cross-border investment frameworks, deeper liquidity pools, and sustainable finance initiatives across our member exchanges,” Mr Chiemeka stated.

On his part, Mr Rwabukumba reflected on his tenure, saying, “Leading ASEA has been an honour, and I am proud of the progress we have made in bringing African exchanges closer together. I extend my warmest congratulations to Jude Chiemeka. His extensive leadership across both the Nigerian market and WACMIC makes him exceptionally qualified to guide ASEA into its next chapter of growth.”

Mr Chiemeka, who also chairs the West African Capital Markets Integration Council, has more than 30 years of experience in the capital markets, spanning securities trading, asset management and investment banking. He has played key roles in regional market initiatives and major transactions.