Professor Benedict Okey Oramah has concluded his transformative tenure as President and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank), leaving behind a legacy of visionary leadership and significant contributions to African trade and economic development.
At a Farewell and Investiture Ceremony held at the St. Regis Al Masa Convention Centre in Cairo, Egypt, on Friday, Oramah was lauded for his bold initiatives and unwavering commitment to Africa’s economic integration. The two-day event, themed “Decades of Impact as Building Blocks for a Prosperous Future,” celebrated the milestones achieved under his leadership.
Former Afreximbank President Mr. Jean-Louis Ekra commended Oramah for his exceptional leadership, stating, “In 1996, he joined the bank as an executive vice-president, impressing colleagues with his impressive command of banking and finance despite his academic background in agricultural economics.” Ekra highlighted Oramah’s dedication and passion for the bank’s mission, noting that he was the right man to confront Africa’s trade finance challenges.
Dr. George Elombi, the incoming President and Chairman of the Board, praised Oramah for transforming Afreximbank into what he described as “Africa’s development supermarket,” emphasizing the institution’s expanded role in supporting the continent’s economic growth.
Under Oramah’s leadership, Afreximbank’s assets grew to $44 billion, reflecting the bank’s enhanced capacity to finance trade and development projects across Africa. His strategic initiatives, including the establishment of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Adjustment Fund, have been instrumental in promoting intra-African trade and investment.
As Oramah steps down, his legacy continues to inspire a new generation of leaders committed to Africa’s economic prosperity. His tenure at Afreximbank is a testament to the impact of visionary leadership in driving sustainable development across the continent.