Dr. Adenrele Oni
Abayomi Susan
The National Association of Microfinance Banks (NAMB) has ushered in a new leadership with the inauguration of Dr. Adenrele Oni as its National President during the association’s 16th Annual General Meeting (AGM) and the inauguration of its National Working Committee (NWC) in Abuja.
In his inaugural address, Dr. Oni pledged to strengthen the role of Nigeria’s microfinance banking industry by advocating greater government support for Microfinance Banks (MFBs) through increased interventions and policies that foster a more conducive operating environment.
He noted that enhanced support for the sector would accelerate financial inclusion, promote the growth of small businesses and contribute significantly to the country’s economic development.
According to the new NAMB President, Microfinance Banks remain key partners in the Federal Government’s economic reform agenda, playing a vital role in expanding access to financial services, reducing poverty and driving economic activities at the grassroots.
“Microfinance Banks have made significant contributions to the Federal Government’s reform initiatives aimed at transforming the economy, promoting financial inclusion and reducing poverty. Looking at where we started and where we are today, it is clear that the sector has recorded remarkable progress,” Dr. Oni said.
He also unveiled plans to strengthen advocacy and public awareness campaigns across the country to improve public confidence in the microfinance banking sector and educate more Nigerians on the critical role MFBs play in fostering inclusive economic growth.
In his remarks, the immediate past National President of NAMB, Alhaji Abubakar Adamu Ahmad, attributed the association’s achievements over the years to the continued support of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC), whose partnership, he said, has contributed significantly to the stability and growth of the industry.
The event also witnessed the inauguration of the association’s new National Working Committee and attracted stakeholders from across Nigeria’s financial services sector.
Among dignitaries present were the immediate past National President, Alhaji Abubakar Adamu Ahmad; representative of the Managing Director of Moniepoint MFB, Bemigho Awala; the newly inaugurated National President, Dr. Adenrele Oni; and the National First Vice President, Benjamin Mapac.
The AGM and leadership transition marked a significant milestone for the association, underscoring its commitment to institutional continuity, stronger leadership and the advancement of financial inclusion through a vibrant and resilient microfinance banking sector.
