The African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) hosted a landmark event in Cairo this week, bringing together leading African business and financial leaders to mark a decade of transformative leadership under Prof. Benedict Oramah and to welcome the bank’s incoming President, Dr. George Elombi.
Among the distinguished attendees were Mike Ogbalu III FCIB, CEO of the Pan African Payment Settlement System at Afreximbank, Toyin Saraki, John Kayode Fayemi, PhD, and Gabriel Edgal. The event celebrated the milestones achieved under Prof. Oramah, whose decade-long stewardship strengthened Afreximbank’s role as a central driver of intra-African trade, financial inclusion, and economic development.
A Decade of Progress
Under Prof. Oramah’s leadership, Afreximbank expanded its trade finance operations, supported African exporters, and played a pivotal role in facilitating cross-border investments. The bank also strengthened partnerships across the continent, positioning itself as a key institution in implementing the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
Speaking at the event, Mike Ogbalu III FCIB said, “It is an honour to reconnect with peers and leaders shaping Africa’s trade and financial landscape. Celebrating Prof. Oramah’s achievements and welcoming Dr. Elombi underscores Afreximbank’s continued commitment to advancing intra-African trade and economic integration.”
Looking Ahead: A New Chapter
The appointment of Dr. George Elombi signals a new chapter for Afreximbank, with a focus on leveraging innovative payment solutions, promoting regional trade harmonization, and supporting sustainable development initiatives across Africa. Attendees expressed confidence that under his leadership, the bank will continue to drive the AfCFTA agenda and help unlock Africa’s full trade potential.
The Cairo gathering also highlighted Afreximbank’s strategic efforts to strengthen financial infrastructure, enhance trade liquidity, and provide African businesses with the tools needed to compete globally. Leaders emphasized that Africa’s economic growth and intra-continental trade are at a historic turning point, and institutions like Afreximbank will play a central role in ensuring inclusive prosperity.
As Afreximbank celebrates its legacy and charts a path forward, the bank’s role in shaping the future of intra-African trade, financial innovation, and regional integration has never been more critical.
ANTHONY EMEKA NWOSU
