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| Olusegun Alebiosu |
The new czar at the helm of Nigeria's premier bank was born in the nodal town of Omuooke Ekiti of Ekiti state, where the political North kissed the Southwest. A town where ambition thrived on every street corner, there the seed of greatness was planted in a young man named Olusegun. Born into poverty in the Ilebojo neighborhood, Olusegun's childhood was a struggle against the odds. But beneath the veneer of destitution lay a spirit unbroken and dreams unyielding.
From a tender age, Olusegun harbored a fascination with numbers and a keen eye for opportunity. Despite the disadvantaged state: losing his father early in life, raised by a single mother in debilitating surroundings, he hung to every opportunity to get formal education he could find, his hunger for knowledge was insatiable. Determined to transcend his circumstances, Olusegun poured his heart and soul into his studies, often sacrificing sleep and sustenance for the pursuit of his dreams.
With formal education as his ticket out of poverty, Olusegun's journey took him through studying Industrial Relations and Personnel Management to uncharted territory as an accountant specializing in Credit risk management, excelling in all and earned the admiration of his peers and seniors alike. But the path to success was fraught with obstacles, and Olusegun faced his fair share of setbacks and challenges along the way.
After graduating, Olusegun set his sights on the world of banking, determined to carve out a name for himself in the cutthroat industry. He commenced his professional career in 1991 with Oceanic Bank Plc. (now EcoBank Plc.)
An untold turn around in the life of Olusegun was his faith which formed a bulwark against the ostentatious and flamboyant demeanour that characterized the banking industry. He demonstrated an unmatched modesty in spite of the abundance, Olusegun epitomizes the meek that will inherit the earth. Banking intrigues became stepping stone rather than a dead end. From behind the counter, he observed the intricate workings of the banking world with a keen eye, learning from every transaction and interaction.
As the years passed, Olusegun's dedication and tenacity caught the attention of his superiors, who recognized his untapped potential and relentless drive. He was soon promoted to higher positions within the bank, his star rising steadily in the corporate firmament.
Prior to joining FirstBank in 2016, he served as Chief Risk Officer at Coronation Merchant Bank Limited, Chief Credit Risk Officer at African Development Bank Group and Group Head, Credit Policy & Deputy Chief Credit Risk Officer at United Bank for Africa Plc.
But fate had more in store for Olusegun than just climbing the corporate ladder. With former CEO of First Bank, Adeduntan's surprise exit, leaving behind a void for Olusegun who is the Executive Director, Credit Risk, an opportunity disguised as a crisis. Segun will have to steer First Bank with courage and conviction as he stepped into the role of interim CEO, through its arguably toughest period.
With bold vision and strategic foresight, Olusegun will have to chart a new course for First Bank, steering it away through the ongoing bank consolidation and towards a brighter future. He will have to implement innovative strategies, fostered a culture of collaboration and accountability, and inspired his team to reach new heights of success.
The board of First Bank in the coming days will have to confirm Olusegun as the permanent CEO to engender confidence and place the bank in a stable position.
Meanwhile, Olusegun's journey from rags to riches is an inspiring testament to the power of perseverance and resilience. His story will echo through the halls of corporate boardrooms, inspiring hope and ambition in all who will hear it. And as he looked out over the city skyline from his corner office atop the First Bank skyscraper in Marina, Olusegun must hold to the ideals that set him apart - helping the indigents, touching lives when it matters, knowing that the greatest riches were not measured in wealth, but in the lives touched and dreams fulfilled along the way.
• 'Seun Ibukun-Oni is an Abuja based journalist and can be be reached via email: seunoni@gatepolls.com
