Wema Bank, one of Nigeria’s leading financial institutions, has announced the appointment of Yusuf Kazaure as a non-executive director and Segun Opeke as an executive director.
The bank, in a notice to the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX), confirmed that the appointments were effective from February 2, 2024. With approval from the Central Bank of Nigeria secured, Wema Bank expressed confidence in the leadership capabilities of Kazaure and Opeke, emphasizing their extensive experience and expertise in their respective fields.
Yusuf Kazaure, a seasoned professional with over thirty-five years of diverse working experience, brings a wealth of knowledge spanning architecture, construction, banking, and Information and Communication Technology (ICT) sectors.
Describing his professional journey, Kazaure said, “I am motivated by challenges and focused on transformative outcomes.”
His educational background includes a BSc and MSc in Architecture from Ahmadu Bello University, complemented by an MBA from Oxford University, United Kingdom, and ongoing pursuit of a PhD in Cybersecurity at Nasarawa State University. Kazaure’s career trajectory includes notable roles in public service and leadership positions in both state-owned and federal government ICT companies, as well as multinational conglomerates.
“He obtained a BSc and MSc in Architecture from the prestigious Ahmadu Bello University Zaria, Nigeria. He is also an alumnus of Bayero University Kano, Nigeria, and Oxford University, United Kingdom where he obtained an MBA and Diploma in Computing respectively.
“He is currently pursuing a PhD in Cybersecurity at the Nasarawa State University, Keffi, Nigeria. He started his career in public service in 1987 as an Architect in the Kano State Ministry of Works and Housing before moving into the banking sector where he worked for 10 years,” Wema Bank said.
Segun Opeke, another accomplished professional with over thirty-five years of banking experience, joins Wema Bank as an executive director. Opeke’s career journey reflects a commitment to excellence and strategic leadership within the banking sector.
He holds a degree in Banking and Finance from the University of Lagos, coupled with an MBA from the same institution. Opeke’s tenure in leading Nigerian commercial banks, including his strategic roles in consumer banking, corporate banking, and regional directorship, emphasizes his expertise in driving organizational growth and performance. His international exposure, including professional programs at renowned institutions such as INSEAD and Euromoney, further enriches his leadership acumen.
The board of Wema Bank expressed confidence that the addition of Kazaure and Opeke will significantly enhance the wealth of knowledge within the bank’s leadership team.
Commenting on the appointments, the board stated, “We are delighted to welcome Yusuf Kazaure and Segun Opeke to Wema Bank’s board of directors. Their extensive experience and proven track record of leadership will further strengthen our strategic vision and drive continued growth and innovation.”
In response to their appointments, Kazaure and Opeke expressed their commitment to contributing to Wema Bank’s success.
Kazaure remarked: “I am honoured to join Wema Bank’s board and look forward to leveraging my experience to support the bank’s strategic objectives, particularly in driving innovation and fostering sustainable growth.” Opeke echoed similar sentiments, stating, “I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to Wema Bank’s continued success and am committed to leveraging my expertise to drive value for our stakeholders.”
With the addition of Yusuf Kazaure and Segun Opeke to its leadership team, Wema Bank reaffirms its commitment to excellence, innovation, and strategic growth in the Nigerian banking landscape. As the bank continues to navigate dynamic market conditions, these appointments signal a strategic investment in leadership talent to drive sustainable value creation and ensure long-term success.
