HENRY OROH: UNIBEN’s Exemplary Ambassador Leaving a Lasting Mark on the Banking Industry

The University of Benin was more than just a place of learning for Henry Oroh – it was where his passion for Accounting was ignited. As he honed his skills and developed a keen eye for detail, he began to forge a path that would take him to the very pinnacle of banking greatness. As a distinguished alumnus, the Executive Director of Zenith Bank Plc has leveraged his academic foundation to build a remarkable career which has been marked by multiple awards and recognition for his contributions to the financial sector.

Oroh’s academic prowess and professional achievements paint a picture of a highly accomplished individual. With a solid foundation in Accounting from the University of Benin, he has further honed his skills with an MBA from Lagos State University and an LLB Degree from the University of London, showcasing his versatility in both finance and law. His distinction as a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) and honorary member of the Chartered Institute of Bankers (CIBN), Nigeria, underscores his expertise and commitment to excellence in the banking sector.

Additionally, Oroh’s induction as an Ambassador for Peace by the United Nations (Polac Foundation) highlights his contributions beyond the financial realm, demonstrating his impact on global peace and stability. His Honorary Doctorate Degree Award, PhD in Business Administration from Prowess University, Delaware USA, is a notable recognition of his leadership and contributions to the business world.

His extensive experience in banking operations and business development spans over two decades, beginning with his tenure at Citibank in 1992, where he spent seven years. He later joined Zenith Bank in February 1999, working in various capacities, including Operations, Treasury, Marketing, and Corporate Banking. Through his experience at both institutions, he has developed a unique understanding of the banking industry and drives business growth through innovative strategies.

Prior to his current role, Henry’s leadership skills were enhanced during his secondment to Zenith Bank Ghana Limited as Executive Director in 2012, and later as Managing Director/Chief Executive in February 2016. During his tenure, he successfully grew the Zenith brand within Ghana and across the West African sub-region, demonstrating his ability to navigate diverse markets and drive business expansion. His achievements in Ghana underscore his strategic acumen and leadership skills, which have propelled the bank’s growth and solidified its presence in the region.

As Executive Director of Zenith Bank Plc, the University of Benin resourceful ambassador has played a pivotal role in driving the bank’s strategic objectives, with a particular focus on Oil & Gas, Commercial Banking, and other key business areas. Since his appointment in September 2019, he has overseen various critical functions, including Information Technology, Treasury, Correspondent Banking, Property, and Administration, showcasing his versatility and expertise in navigating complex banking operations. As the bank’s Executive Compliance Officer, Oroh has demonstrated a strong commitment to ensuring regulatory adherence and maintaining high standards of governance.

Henry’s leadership propelled Zenith Bank Ghana to remarkable success, earning him a slew of prestigious awards that underscored its dominance in the banking sector. He was named Best Banking CEO Ghana 2017 and 2019 by the International Finance Magazine; Banking CEO of the Year 2019 by the International Business Magazine Awards; Best Banking CEO of the Year 2018 by The European Magazine; CEO of the Year 2019 Ghana by CEO Monthly; CEO of the Year 2018 (Banking) at the Global Excellence Awards organised by Acquisition International and Finance Personality of the Year 2018 at Ghana Accountancy and Finance Awards, amongst other recognitions.

Under his result-driven stewardship, Zenith Bank Ghana attained new heights and feats in financial performance, receiving a plethora of national and international awards, including Best Banking Group, Ghana, for four consecutive years, from 2016 to 2019 by World Finance Magazine; Best Corporate Bank Ghana for three consecutive years, from 2016 to 2018 by Global Banking and Finance Magazine; Best Customer Service Bank, for three consecutive years, from 2016 to 2018 by Global Banking and Finance Magazine; Best e-Commerce Bank for three consecutive years from 2016 to 2018 by Global Banking and Finance Magazine; and Best Trade Finance Bank Ghana 2017 by Global Finance Magazine, among other honours.

An exemplary ambassador of UNIBEN, he served on the board of the African Finance Corporation from 2020 to 2023 and currently sits on the board of the Nigeria Inter-Bank Settlement System Plc (NIBSS). His professional development includes participation in various leadership programmes and executive management courses at globally renowned institutions such as Harvard Business School, Columbia Business School, University of Chicago, University of Pennsylvania, HEC Paris, JP Morgan Chase, UK and the Lagos Business School.

TOKUNBO WAHAB: Portrait of A Paragon in Public Service, from UNIBEN Foundations to National Impact

He is an excelling alumnus of the University of Benin whose passion and competence embody the motto of his alma mater – Knowledge for Service. Tokunbo Philip Wahab, the Lagos State’s Honourable Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources is a dynamic professional who has distinguished himself as a transformative figure in public service, leveraging his expertise in law, policy development and governance to drive meaningful change in the Centre of Excellence. With a remarkable career spanning law, academia and governance, he has consistently championed sustainable practices, equity, and justice.

As Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, he has brought a wealth of experience and expertise to the role, harnessing his exceptional skills in strategic planning, stakeholder engagement, and public speaking to make a lasting impact. Through his leadership, the distinguished UNIBEN graduate is redefining the narrative around environmental sustainability in Lagos, fostering a culture of ecological consciousness and community engagement that is both inclusive and forward-thinking.

Wahab’s impressive educational background is matched by his extensive experience in the legal profession. A seasoned lawyer with a career spanning over two decades, he has worked with several prominent law firms, including Jiti Ogunye & Co. Associates, Paul Usoro and Co., and Aluko & Oyebode. His expertise in law has earned him membership of prestigious professional bodies, including the Nigeria Bar Association (NBA) and the International Bar Association (IBA).

As a highly respected legal practitioner, Wahab has demonstrated his ability to navigate complex legal issues and provide innovative solutions. He founded Wali & Ace Legal Practitioners in 2008 where he served as Managing Partner until 2019, showcasing his leadership skills and ability to build a successful legal practice. His experience and expertise have prepared him well for his current role as Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources where he is leveraging his knowledge and skills to drive meaningful change in Lagos State.

His educational background reveals a remarkable pursuit of knowledge and a passion for personal growth. His tertiary academic journey began with a Diploma in Mass Communication from Ogun State Polytechnic, Abeokuta before he proceeded to the University of Benin, where he earned his LLB in Law in 1998 and was subsequently called to the Nigerian Bar in 2000 after completing his studies at the Nigerian Law School. Wahab further expanded his knowledge and skills at Harvard Kennedy School, Harvard Business School, and the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School, equipping himself with cutting-edge insights and perspectives that inform his leadership and decision-making.

As Special Adviser to the Governor on Education from August 2019 to May 2023, Wahab played a pivotal role in shaping the tertiary education landscape in Lagos State. He drove the development and implementation of comprehensive policies and initiatives aimed at enhancing the quality of tertiary education, leveraging data-driven insights and research to inform decision-making processes. His expertise and strategic thinking enabled the Governor to make informed decisions on key educational matters, ultimately benefiting the state’s academic institutions and students.

One of his most notable achievements during his tenure was the transformation of several institutions into full-fledged universities. Under his stewardship, Adeniran Ogunsanya College of Education (AOCOED) and Michael Otedola College of Primary Education (MOCPED) were successfully upgraded to Lagos State University of Education (LASUED). Additionally, the Lagos State Polytechnic (LASPOTECH) was converted to Lagos State University of Science and Technology (LASUSTECH). These institutional upgrades have had a profound impact on the state’s education sector, expanding opportunities for students and enhancing the overall quality of education in Lagos State.

Reflecting on his decision to study Law at the University of Benin, Wahab cites the institution’s reputation for excellence and its representation of Nigeria’s diversity as key factors. For him, UNIBEN was more than just a university – it was a microcosm of the country, offering a rich and dynamic learning environment that shaped his perspective and prepared him for his future endeavours. This experience laid the foundation for his successful career in law and governance, and he still holds the institution in high regard.

The values instilled in him during his time at the University of Benin have had a profound and lasting impact on his professional journey and life. One key lesson that has stayed with him is the importance of authenticity and standing up for those who are marginalized. This ethos has guided his commitment to equity and justice, driving him to provide pro bono legal services to those in need. Throughout his career, Wahab has remained dedicated to ensuring equal opportunities for all, regardless of socio-economic background, and has consistently championed the rights of the underprivileged.

His university experience was shaped by influential figures and lasting friendships. He credits Prof. Otakpor, who taught him Philosophy 101 in his first year, as one of the lecturers who had a significant impact on him. Among his university mates, he fondly recalls notable alumni such as Mike Iginni, a former Resident Electoral Commissioner in Cross River State, and colleagues like Osa Osaweka, a practicing lawyer in Benin, Adams Aliyu Orunwesiri, who practices law in the UK, and Chase Osigwe, a lawyer based in Lagos. Today, many of his university mates continue to excel in their respective fields, a reflection of the strong foundation they built together at the University of Benin.

In testament to Wahab’s commitment and competence, a bold new vision has been taking shape in Lagos’ waste management sector, as the city steers away from the traditional “pick and dump” system that has been in place for decades. Instead, Lagos is embracing a more sustainable and environmentally friendly model, where waste is viewed as a resource for generating wealth and energy. This innovative strategy aims to minimize the amount of waste sent to landfills, promoting a more efficient and eco-friendly waste management system. By adopting this approach, Lagos is setting a new standard for urban waste management, one that prioritizes resourcefulness and sustainability in the face of rapid population growth.

Drawing on the transformative power of quality education, his experience at UNIBEN and other esteemed institutions has instilled in him a deep appreciation for the role of academia in shaping the next generation of leaders. He advocates for a harmonious relationship between the “town and gown,” where institutions and industries collaborate to produce graduates who are better equipped to meet the needs of the job market. By fostering such partnerships and tailoring curricula to reflect the needs of society, Nigerian universities, according to him, can better empower their graduates to make a meaningful impact in their respective fields.

To current students and young alumni of the University of Benin, Wahab offers words of wisdom: ” Believe in yourself and your purpose. Staying focused and driven is key to achieving success, and once you have clarity on your “why,” you will be well on your way to making a positive difference.”

CYRIL AGBELE: The Accomplished UNIBEN Graduate With Uncommon Achievements Making Impact in the Public Service

Cyril Chima Agbele’s name is etched in the annals of Nigeria’s public finance history, thanks to a career that embodies the perfect blend of expertise, leadership and vision. With a storied past as the longest-serving Accountant-General in Nigeria, having helmed Delta State’s finances for 16 remarkable years before retiring meritoriously from the civil service, he has seamlessly transitioned into his current role as Special Adviser on Finance to the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development. For him, a degree in Accounting from the University of Benin proved the catalyst for a remarkable trajectory, marked by a keen eye for transformative opportunities and impeccable financial insight.

His journey to becoming a renowned accountant was paved with intentional decisions. “I left Calabar to Benin because I wanted to study Accounting, but UNICAL offered me Management Studies.” , he explained, highlighting the pivotal moment that led him to the University of Benin. This determination to pursue his chosen course would go on to shape his remarkable career. As a student, Agbele was taught discipline and responsibility, qualities that served him well in his future endeavours. In fact, he began honing his leadership skills in secondary school, where he was appointed Deputy Head Prefect, and after which he furthered his education at the UNIBEN, earning not only a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting but also a Master of Business Administration, which deepened his understanding of business principles and practices.

Agbele’s professional journey is marked by a relentless pursuit of knowledge and professional growth. He became an Associate of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ACA) and later a Fellow (FCA), demonstrating his expertise in the field. His pursuit of knowledge didn’t stop there. He also acquired memberships with the Chartered Institute of Taxation (ACTI) and the International Institute of Certified Forensic Investigation Professionals (CFIP), showcasing his dedication to staying at the forefront of his profession. As he navigated the civil service, his credentials compared favorably to those of employees in top corporate institutions.

Throughout his career, the distinguished UNIBEN graduate has attended numerous esteemed courses, including Budgeting, Evaluation and Control at Westminster University, London (2003); SAP Computer Solution in Johannesburg, South Africa (2004); Financial Management Course at Stanford University, California (2005); Driving Corporate Performance at Harvard University, Boston, Mass USA (2006); Creating Value through Financial Management at the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School, Philadelphia USA (2008); Strategic Leadership Programme at the Ross Business School, University of Michigan (2018); Value Creation and Growth through Innovative Corporate Finance at the Wharton School (2019); and Implementing Winning Strategies at Columbia University, New York (2019). These experiences have undoubtedly contributed to his exceptional leadership and financial acumen, through which his position as a respected figure in his field was cemented.

Agbele’s foray into the Civil Service was marked by unrelenting focus and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Joining the defunct Bendel State Civil Service in 1985 as an Accountant, Grade II, he steadily climbed the ranks, leaving an indelible mark in every office he occupied and every assignment he handled. His meteoric rise to the esteemed position of Accountant-General of Delta State in March 2004 was a testament to his seniority, competence, and integrity – values that were instilled in him by his parents and which have remained the bedrock of his illustrious career.

Under the mentorship of distinguished Accountants-General like Chief Idahosa Solomon Ero and Late Sir John Uchenna Thomas Okolo, he honed his skills in Public Financial Management and Control. These two gurus were more than just supervisors; they were mentors who recognised his potential and nurtured it. Their fondness for him was rooted in his reliability, diligence, and extraordinary sense of responsibility, traits that set him apart from his peers. As he progressed in his career, his reputation as a meticulous and results-driven accountant spread far and wide, earning him the respect of his colleagues and superiors alike.

Diligent and resourceful, his appointment as Permanent Secretary/Accountant-General in May 2011 was a fitting recognition of his exceptional service record and leadership abilities. With this designation, he was entrusted with even greater responsibilities, overseeing the financial management of the state whilst providing strategic guidance to his team. Through his remarkable tenure, he has left an enduring legacy in the Delta State Civil Service and set a high standard for professionalism and excellence in public service.

Reflecting on his undergraduate years, Agbele nostalgically recalls the improvements in physical infrastructure over the years, but emphasizes that what truly set his experience apart was the passion of his lecturers. “We were lucky to be taught by lecturers who were passionate about their profession,” he said, highlighting the significant role they played in shaping his academic journey. Living on campus, he also fondly remembers the quality of food provided, noting that it was not only rich but also abundant. “I wish undergraduates of today can enjoy the same,” he wistfully remarked.

Agbele’s university years were also marked by the company of talented individuals who have gone on to excel in various fields. When asked about some of his university mates, he mentioned a few notable examples, including Isaac Ehiozuwa, the former Accountant General of Edo State, who was his course mate. Another notable mention was Prof. Isaac Okafor, who was a year ahead of him and later became a lecturer at the university. He proudly noted that there are many others who have distinguished themselves in different fields, both in Nigeria and abroad.

Over the course of his career, Agbele demonstrated unwavering commitment to integrity and financial discipline. Prior to the civilian administration in 1999, he refused to yield to pressure from the military administration to carry out transactions that were contrary to the Financial Rules and Regulations, and against the interest of Delta State. This bold stance showcased his unshakeable dedication to doing what was right, even in the face of adversity. By keeping to the tenets of financial discipline, he ensured that the incoming administration inherited reserved funds from the substantive Accountant-General at the time.

Beyond his role as a civil servant, he has proven himself to be a versatile personality with a wide range of expertise. He served as a consultant to the Delta State Civil Service Commission on the recruitment of senior officers and as an external consultant to the Federal Medical Center, Asaba, on the recruitment of accountants. He also shared his knowledge as a part-time lecturer in Finance, Executorship, Trusteeship law, and accounts at Delta State University’s Anwai Campus. These diverse roles demonstrate his expertise and passion for his field.

His contributions extend beyond the public sector, with active involvement in the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN). Agbele has served as financial secretary, vice chairman of the Asaba and District Society, and currently as an examiner for all ICAN professional examinations in the district. These roles highlight his commitment to the accounting profession and his desire to give back to his community.

After a remarkable 35-year career in the civil service, he retired as Permanent Secretary/Accountant-General of Delta State on April 8, 2020. However, retirement has not slowed him down. Instead, it has opened up new opportunities for him to explore other endeavors, including Aretz Farms Ltd, a poultry farm with over 30,000 birds. Agbele’s entrepreneurial spirit and willingness to take on new challenges demonstrate that he is still as vibrant and engaged as ever.

His expertise and experience continue to be in high demand, even in retirement. In June 2021, he was appointed Chairman of the Delta State Bureau for Pensions by Governor I.A. Okowa. During his tenure, the bureau was sanitized, and pension funds earlier tied up with administrators and custodians were recovered and used to pay pensioners. Agbele’s appointment as Special Adviser on Finance to the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development in November 2023 is a testament to his enduring relevance and expertise.

The numerous awards and recognitions he has received are a fitting tribute to his outstanding contributions. From the Delta State Government’s award for Excellence in Service to the Merit Award as Distinguished Alumnus of the University of Benin, Agbele’s achievements have been acknowledged by various stakeholders.

His inclusion among The Guardian’s 50 Outstanding Professionals in Nigeria and the Award of Excellence by the Nigeria Civil Service Union further cement his reputation as a dedicated public servant. Beyond these accolades, he holds the traditional title of Ekwa Chukwu Pa Eka 1 of Ute-Okpu Kingdom, Delta State, a distinction that reflects his esteemed position in his community.