As Professor Benedict Okey Oramah concludes his distinguished tenure as President and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank), tributes continue to pour in from across Africa and the global financial community — honoring a man widely regarded as one of the principal architects of Africa’s modern trade and economic renaissance.
Among the most heartfelt of these tributes came from Ekene Uzor, Special Assistant to the President of Afreximbank on Banking and Strategy, who in a moving public statement described Prof. Oramah as “a mentor, a visionary, and one of the true architects of Africa’s economic rebirth.”
In a LinkedIn post titled “Tribute to My Boss, Prof. Benedict Oramah | Your Legacy Will Never Be Forgotten,” Uzor reflected on his years of close service under the outgoing President’s leadership, offering rare insight into the rigor, brilliance, and humanity that have defined Oramah’s nearly three-decade career at Afreximbank.
“From the intimate quarters of your office, I had the unparalleled privilege of witnessing your every stride,” Uzor wrote. “You didn’t just assign tasks; you ignited possibilities. You transformed me from an eager officer into a steward of your grand vision.”
A Legacy of Vision, Courage, and Innovation
Prof. Oramah’s presidency, which began in 2015, marked a defining era for Afreximbank — one characterized by institutional expansion, innovation in trade finance, and a renewed drive for African economic integration. Under his leadership, the Bank’s capital base expanded significantly, its mandate broadened to support industrialization, and its role deepened in facilitating intra-African trade, Afreximbank’s Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS), and AfCFTA implementation.
Describing Oramah’s leadership style, Uzor highlighted a unique blend of intellectual depth, boundless energy, and strategic courage, noting how the President often “turned crises into corridors of opportunity.”
“Your encyclopedic knowledge of trade finance, coupled with an intuitive grasp of Africa’s pulse, consistently turned crises into opportunities,” Uzor observed. “You taught me that true wisdom lies not in hoarding knowledge, but in deploying it selflessly for the continent’s upliftment.”
He also recalled the intensity and dedication that characterized Oramah’s work ethic — long days, global missions, and unwavering commitment to Afreximbank’s vision of a self-reliant Africa.
“Your courage was legendary. In the face of geopolitical storms and skeptical naysayers, you stood unyielding, reminding us of the power of building the ‘coalition of the willing,’” Uzor wrote. “You leave Afreximbank not just stronger, but forever transformed into Africa’s indispensable economic fortress.”
From Vision to Impact
Since joining the Bank in 1994, Prof. Oramah has been instrumental in shaping Afreximbank into one of Africa’s most vital financial institutions. His focus on trade financing, value addition, and export diversification has helped reposition the continent’s trade narrative — from dependence to empowerment.
Under his leadership, the Bank supported numerous initiatives including AfrexInsure, Afreximbank Academy (AFRACAD), MANSA due diligence repository, and major responses to crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic and commodity price shocks — ensuring liquidity, trade continuity, and resilience across African economies.
Oramah’s intellectual and policy contributions have also influenced continental discussions on trade sovereignty, regional value chains, and the financing of Africa’s industrialization.
A Mentor to a Generation
Beyond his institutional impact, Prof. Oramah’s legacy is deeply personal to those who worked with him. For many within Afreximbank, he was not only a President but a mentor — one who demanded excellence, inspired innovation, and led with empathy.
“You welcomed me into the inner sanctum of your mission with open arms,” Uzor wrote. “Every promotion, every pivotal project, every late-night session was a testament to your unwavering and inspirational leadership.”
The tribute concluded with gratitude and admiration:
“Mr. President, you leave Afreximbank not just stronger but transformed. Generations will remember your legacy. Your wisdom, courage, and energy will continue to inspire us.”
Looking Ahead
As Dr. George Elombi succeeds Prof. Oramah as the fourth President and Chairman of Afreximbank, the transition marks both continuity and renewal for the institution. Dr. Elombi, who has served the Bank since 1996, inherits a strong foundation built on Oramah’s vision of a connected, industrialized, and economically empowered Africa.
Still, as colleagues and protégés like Ekene Uzor attest, the indelible mark of Prof. Benedict Oramah’s leadership will continue to shape Afreximbank — and Africa’s economic trajectory — for generations to come.
