Access Bank Plc has appointed legal expert and independent director Mrs. Ifeyinwa Osime as its new Chairman of the Board of Directors, succeeding Paul Usoro, SAN.
The appointment, disclosed by parent company Access Holdings Plc in a filing on February 2, 2026, follows the retirement of Paul Usoro on January 29, 2026. Usoro stepped down after successfully completing his regulatory tenure limit, as mandated by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).
Mrs. Osime, a versatile legal practitioner with over 30 years of experience, has served as an Independent Non-Executive Director on the bank’s board since November 2019. She previously chaired the Board’s Human Resources and Sustainability Committee, as well as the Board Governance, Nomination, and Remuneration Committee.
Welcoming the transition, Access Holdings Chairman Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, CFR, noted:
“Ms. Osime brings strong experience and expertise in strategy and governance. She is well positioned to continue the bank’s growth in Africa and internationally.”
The official notice, signed by Group Company Secretary Sunday Ekwochi, expressed the institution’s appreciation for the outgoing chairman’s service. The board stated:
“The Board is profoundly grateful to Mr. Usoro for his immense contributions and leadership. He shall remain a valued member of the Access family.”
Osime’s appointment comes as Access Bank continues its aggressive global expansion strategy and navigates the CBN’s ongoing banking sector recapitalization exercise. Her leadership is expected to prioritize institutional trust and corporate governance during this transition.
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