By TAIYE OLAYEMI

Access Holdings Plc has confirmed the appointment of Innocent Ike as the company’s substantive Group Managing Director.

The company disclosed this in a corporate filing with the Nigerian Exchange Ltd. on Thursday.

The statement read: “Access Holdings today announces the appointment of Mr Innocent Ike as the substantive Group Managing Director, effective Aug. 29, 2025.

“This follows the receipt of regulatory approval.

“Mr Ike will succeed Ms Bolaji Agbede, who has served as Acting Group Managing Director for 18 months, playing a vital role in driving performance.

“Due to regulatory stipulations on required years of experience for a financial holding company’s Managing Director, Ms Agbede will revert to her role as Executive Director, Business Support.”

The company noted that during Agbede’s tenure, Access Holdings achieved significant milestones, including workforce stability and seamless transition.

These included managing the transition following the death of the former Group Chief Executive Officer, executing the N351 billion Rights Issue and hosting two successful Annual General Meetings.

Her leadership and strategic vision not only maintained the company’s momentum but also strengthened its competitive position in the industry.

Commenting on the development, the Chairman, Mr Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, said: “We are delighted to welcome Mr Innocent Ike as we move forward.

“At the same time, we express our deepest gratitude to Ms Bolaji Agbede.

“Her outstanding contributions over the past 18 months have been invaluable, and we commend her dedication in steering the company through challenges and opportunities.

“While regulatory requirements necessitate this change, we remain grateful for the strong foundation she has laid.” (NAN)