The Group Chief Executive of Oando Group, Adewale Tinubu, has extolled Professor Benedict Oramah as he officially bows out as President and Chairman, Board of the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank), after a decade of groundbreaking leadership that redefined the trajectory of African trade, finance, and economic integration.

Tinubu, through his media office, sent a tribute to Prof. Oramah, whom he described as a rare gem who stands as living evidence of what Africans can achieve when they come together, resilient, united, and bold.

According to him, Professor Oramah’s visionary leadership transformed Afreximbank into a formidable force for continental growth and empowerment, driving initiatives that deepened intra-African trade and strengthened Africa’s position in the global economy.

Tinubu noted that under Oramah’s stewardship, the bank not only provided critical financial support to nations and businesses during turbulent economic periods but also championed the realisation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), a testament to his unwavering belief in Africa’s potential and self-reliance.

He further stated that Oramah’s tenure would be remembered for its innovation, inclusivity, and courage—qualities that inspired a generation of African entrepreneurs and leaders to dream bigger and act boldly.

He said: “Today, we celebrate the end of an era and the beginning of a new one. For over a decade, Prof. Benedict Oramah, GCON, has stood as a beacon of visionary leadership, proving that belief in Africa’s potential is not idealism, but a deliberate act of strategy and faith in the continent’s promise.

“In 2015, he set out to transform Afreximbank into the engine room for Africa’s progress, driving African-led solutions, bold integration, and a shared pursuit of self-reliance. Through his leadership, the bank became more than a financial institution; it became a catalyst for trade, innovation, and opportunity across borders.

“He led from the front, actively involved in every initiative he championed; from empowering African enterprises to building institutions designed to impact and outlive us. His journey reflects a legacy of vision and action, and his impact, a testament to what’s possible when conviction meets purpose.”

He added that as Oramah bows out, his impact will continue to echo across boardrooms, markets, and borders, serving as a blueprint for transformative leadership rooted in integrity, foresight, and a deep love for the continent.

Tinubu further emphasised that Professor Oramah’s departure marks not just the close of a remarkable chapter, but the beginning of a lasting legacy that will shape Africa’s economic narrative for decades to come.

He lauded Oramah’s efforts in fostering partnerships that bridged gaps between African nations, institutions, and the global financial community, reinforcing the continent’s credibility as a hub for innovation and sustainable growth.

He also expressed optimism that Oramah’s trailblazing spirit will continue to inspire leaders across sectors to embrace collaboration and invest in Africa’s future.

“A rare gem, a son of the soil, and a catalyst for change, Prof. Oramah stands as living evidence of what Africans can achieve when we come together; resilient, united, and bold.

“Thank you, Prof. Oramah, for showing us that leadership is not about position, but about purpose, progress, and people. You leave behind a legacy of impact that will continue to power Africa’s growth story,” he added.

Under Prof. Oramah’s stewardship, Afreximbank’s assets grew beyond $30 billion. It also unveiled the African Medical Centre of Excellence in Abuja, created CANEX and the Intra-African Trade Fair, and established the AfCFTA Adjustment Fund with $1 billion in seed capital.