A Tribute to Ms. Bolaji Agbede on Her Birthday

Today, we celebrate the remarkable life and contributions of an extraordinary leader, Ms. Bolaji Agbede, the Acting Group Chief Executive Officer of Access Corporation Plc, and a towering figure in the Nigerian banking and human resources landscape. Ms. Agbede stands as a beacon of excellence, with an illustrious career that spans over 27 years of unrelenting dedication, strategic vision, and impactful leadership. 

A seasoned professional per excellence, Ms. Agbede has built an enviable track record in Human Resources management, customer relationship management, consumer banking, and banking operations. Her ability to integrate people seamlessly during mergers and acquisitions, lead culture transformations, and execute corporate strategies with precision is a testament to her expertise. Her journey from Guaranty Trust Bank, where she began as an Executive Trainee in 1992, to rising swiftly through the ranks to become a Manager in 2001, highlights her commitment, tenacity, and exceptional talent. During this time, she served in various critical roles, including Relationship Manager and Vault Custodian, all the while leaving an indelible mark on every position she held.

Ms. Bolaji Agbede (Ag. Group CEO, Access Corporation Plc)

Her leadership extended beyond the banking industry when she took on the role of Chief Executive Officer at JKG Limited, a business consulting firm, in 2003. This foray into consulting further expanded her portfolio of achievements, cementing her status as a versatile leader with a deep understanding of business operations and people management.

In 2003, Ms. Agbede joined Access Bank as an Assistant General Manager, managing the bank’s portfolio of Consumer Banking Group and Chemical Trading Companies. By 2010, she had become the Group Head of Human Resources, steering the bank’s human capital development with visionary leadership. Under her guidance, the Access Bank Group has seen tremendous growth, with its people culture reflecting the values she so passionately embodies: integrity, excellence, and innovation. 

Ms. Agbede’s educational background is as impressive as her career. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Mathematics and Statistics from the University of Lagos (1990) and a Master of Business Administration from Cranfield University (2002). As a member of both the Chartered Institute of Management UK and the Chartered Institute of Personnel Management of Nigeria, she is a recognized leader in her field. Additionally, her participation in top-tier leadership programs such as the High-Performance Leadership Programme at IMD and the Strategic Talent Management Programme at the London Business School further underscores her relentless pursuit of excellence and personal growth.

Beyond her impressive professional accolades, Ms. Agbede is a mentor, a leader who believes in people and invests in their potential. She has touched countless lives through her work, leading with compassion, vision, and a deep commitment to nurturing future leaders.

On this special occasion of her birthday, we celebrate Ms. Bolaji Agbede, a woman of substance, a visionary leader, and a role model. We honor her for the values she stands for, her unwavering dedication to excellence, and her pioneering spirit. May this new year bring her even greater accomplishments as she continues to inspire, lead, and make a positive impact on all who are privileged to cross her path.

The entire board and management of KREENO HOLDINGS LLC, USA and KREENO Debt Recovery Agency (KDRA) in Nigeria join the people of the world to say Happy Birthday, Ms. Bolaji Agbede! May your journey continue to soar to even greater heights beyond your widest imagination.

Signed By:

Dr. Ohio O. Ojeagbase, FICA, FIDR 
Convener, Coalition Against Financial Fraud Initiative in Africa (CAFFIA)