VFD Group Appoints Martins Akpore to Oversee Finance, Risk Management

By Adedapo Adesanya

Nigerian proprietary investment company, VFD Group Plc, has announced the appointment of Mr Martins Akpore as Group Head for Centralised Critical Functions (CCF).

In a statement issued on Wednesday, the company disclosed that Mr Akpore would oversee the group’s centralised functions, including Finance, Audit, Risk Management, Credit and Treasury, with immediate effect.

The appointment is expected to bolster VFD Group’s financial governance and strengthen coordination across its subsidiaries as the company advances its expansion and operational efficiency drive.

“We are pleased to announce the appointment of Martins Akpore as Group Head, Centralised Critical Functions at VFD Group Plc. In this expanded strategic role, Martins will lead and oversee the Group’s centralised functions spanning Finance, Audit, Risk Management, Credit, and Treasury, effective immediately.

“Martins brings to this role a strong professional foundation and deep expertise across core financial disciplines, underpinned by his credentials as a Chartered Accountant, Chartered Tax Professional, and Certified Treasury specialist, as well as globally recognised certifications in financial modelling and valuation. He currently serves as Group Head, Treasury, where he has played a key role in strengthening the Group’s financial and capital management capabilities across the ecosystem,” it said.

“In his new capacity, Martins will be responsible for driving cohesive strategy, governance, and execution across the Centralised Critical Functions, ensuring robust risk oversight, disciplined financial operations, and alignment with the Group’s strategic priorities. He will work closely with subsidiary leadership teams to enhance institutional standards, strengthen accountability, and support cross-ecosystem decision making on critical matters,” it added.

Speaking on the appointment, the Group Managing Director, Mr Nonso Okpala, emphasised the importance of collaboration and execution discipline in delivering the firm’s Vision 2026 ambitions. In line with this, Managing Directors and senior leaders across all subsidiaries are encouraged to partner closely with Mr Akpore to ensure alignment, responsiveness, and shared ownership in achieving the organisation’s objectives.

Formerly trading on the NASD Over-the-Counter (OTC) Securities Exchange, VFD Group made an exit in October 2023 and listed on the Nigerian Exchange (NGX) Limited to strengthen its market position, boost visibility, and create more avenues to source cheap funds for expansion and growth.