Fidelity Bank Plc has celebrated the remarkable career and retirement of Professor Benedict Okechukwu Oramah, outgoing President and Chairman of the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank), with a grand black-tie dinner at the Lagos Continental Hotel on Thursday, October 2, 2025.
Themed “Celebrating a Titan,” the prestigious event brought together a distinguished assembly of dignitaries, captains of industry, policymakers, and international guests to honour Prof. Oramah’s decade of transformative leadership at Afreximbank.
Fidelity Bank’s Tribute
Welcoming attendees, Dr. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe, Managing Director and CEO of Fidelity Bank Plc, described Prof. Oramah as “a towering figure in Africa’s economic renaissance.” She praised his legacy of bold ideas, strategic foresight, and inclusive growth, noting his pivotal role in initiatives such as the Pan-African Payment and Settlement System and his advocacy for intra-African trade and creative industries.
“From Cairo to Kigali, Lagos to Lusaka, his influence has touched lives, empowered businesses, and strengthened the fabric of African integration,” Dr. Onyeali-Ikpe stated.
Distinguished Guests & Recognition
Notable guests included Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State, Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State, Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Ms. Hannatu Musawa, Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, and Minister of State for Finance, Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite.
Tributes flowed from leaders such as Mr. Sanwo-Olu, Mr. Simon Tiemtore (Chairman, Vista Group Holding), and Mr. Mustafa Chike-Obi (Chairman, Fidelity Bank Plc), who described Prof. Oramah as “the most consequential African leader of the last decade.”
Special recognition was also extended to Mrs. Chinelo Oramah, acknowledged for her unwavering support throughout her husband’s career.
Oramah Reflects on His Legacy
In an emotional address, Prof. Oramah expressed gratitude to Fidelity Bank and its leadership for the honour:
“It is not always that, at the twilight of one’s tenure, colleagues take the time to say we appreciate you. I truly cherish this moment. On behalf of my family, my wife, and the Afreximbank family, I say thank you.”
He also highlighted the longstanding partnership between Afreximbank and Fidelity Bank, noting that their collaboration dates back to the 1990s and continues to flourish.
A Night of Celebration
The evening was co-anchored by broadcast journalist Ojinika ‘Ojy’ Okpe and celebrated comedian Okey Bakassi, culminating in a thrilling musical performance by Nigerian highlife star Flavour N’abania.
The gala served not only as a fitting tribute to Prof. Oramah’s illustrious career but also as a reaffirmation of Fidelity Bank’s commitment to celebrating African leadership and fostering stronger partnerships for the continent’s growth.
