In a strategic move to enhance its leadership and governance framework, LAPO Microfinance Bank (MfB) has announced the appointment of a seasoned professional to its board. The bank has welcomed Edward Osayomwanbor Aghimien, an economist and marketing expert with over four decades of experience, as a new Non-Executive Director.
A Distinguished Career Spanning Key Industries
Edward Aghimien brings a wealth of knowledge from a career that has touched several vital sectors of the Nigerian economy. His professional journey began in administrative roles before he joined UACN Limited in 1984. At UACN, he climbed the corporate ladder, holding significant management positions such as Store Manager and Acting Regional Manager.
His expertise later took him to the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) giant, Lever Brothers Nigeria, now Unilever Nigeria Plc. There, he served as the Brand Manager for Vaseline, where he was responsible for managing marketing portfolios worth millions of naira. This role honed his skills in consumer engagement, brand strategy, and large-scale business operations.
Academically, Aghimien is well-grounded. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Economics from the University of Benin and a Diploma in Marketing from the Chartered Institute of Marketing in the United Kingdom. He has also completed various executive education programmes throughout his extensive career.
Aligning with LAPO MfB's Strategic Vision
Currently, Edward Aghimien leads Esosa Investment Limited as its Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, overseeing strategic planning and corporate performance. His appointment to the LAPO MfB board is seen as a step that aligns perfectly with the bank's long-term objectives.
Cynthia Ikponmwosa, the Managing Director of LAPO Microfinance Bank, commented on the new appointment. She stated that Aghimien's vast experience across diverse industries would bring a valuable and fresh perspective to the bank's Board.
"His exposure to diverse industries and corporate environments will be a significant asset," Ikponmwosa said. She emphasized that the move is part of the bank's plan to strengthen its corporate governance and support its growth strategy.
Focus on Financial Inclusion and Institutional Strength
The bank's leadership highlighted that this appointment reinforces its commitment to core missions. LAPO MfB remains dedicated to strengthening its institutional capacity and deepening financial inclusion across Nigeria.
A key part of its strategy is to expand access to responsible and affordable financial services. The primary beneficiaries of this mission are low-income households and micro-enterprises throughout the country. By bringing on board members with deep and varied experience like Aghimien's, the bank aims to enhance its decision-making and strategic direction to better serve these segments of the population.
The appointment of Edward Aghimien signals LAPO Microfinance Bank's intent to blend robust financial expertise with seasoned corporate leadership as it navigates the future of inclusive banking in Nigeria.
