Caverton Offshore Support Group Plc has confirmed the death of its non-Executive Director, Bashiru Bakare, who passed away after a brief illness. The company issued a statement to The PUNCH expressing its deep sorrow over the loss, highlighting Bakare’s significant influence and the tremendous gap his absence has created within the organization and among those who knew him. His contributions to Caverton and the broader financial sector in Nigeria were recognized as being impactful and far-reaching, marking him as an indispensable figure in the company’s history.
Bashiru Bakare was renowned as an exceptional leader and a highly respected financial expert, boasting a distinguished career that spanned over 25 years in banking. He was an alumnus of the prestigious London School of Economics, where he earned a degree in Monetary Economics. His extensive expertise and insightful perspectives were instrumental to every organization he was affiliated with. Notably, Bakare served as an Executive Director at First Bank Plc, contributing significantly to its operations and the enhancement of Nigeria’s financial landscape, which affirmed his commitment to excellence.
Throughout his tenure at Caverton Offshore Support Group, Bakare emerged as a pillar of wisdom and leadership. He held key positions, including Chairman of the Board Safety and Implementation Committee, and was an active participant in the Governance and Implementation Committee. These roles placed him at the forefront of shaping the organization’s strategic vision and maintaining its operational integrity. Furthermore, Bakare lent his expertise to Caverton Marine Limited, overseeing its marine operations with a proficient and knowledgeable hand, thereby elevating the company’s performance in that sector.
Aderemi Makanjuola, the Chairman of Caverton Offshore Support Group, spoke fondly of his long-standing friendship with Bakare, recounting shared experiences from their early days as classmates at Ahmadiyya College Agege in Lagos to their joint careers at Barclays Bank. Makanjuola characterized Bakare as a source of inspiration, noting his intellect, integrity, and warmth. He extended heartfelt condolences to Bakare’s family, including his wife, children, and grandchildren, emphasizing the loss felt not only within the company but also on a personal level.
In addition to his professional accomplishments, Makanjuola painted a picture of Bakare’s character as a person of integrity and kindness. A devoted Muslim, Bakare upheld his values with utmost priority, contributing not just as a mentor in the workplace but as a friend and guiding figure for many employees at Caverton. Recognizing the profound impact Bakare had on the organization and its culture, Makanjuola asserted that his legacy will forever be woven into the fabric of Caverton, making his absence all the more poignant.
As the company and its employees mourn the loss of Bashiru Bakare, Makanjuola called on everyone to extend their condolences to Bakare’s family. He highlighted the importance of honoring Bakare’s memory by continuing to embody the values and standards he championed throughout his life. The admiration expressed for Bakare serves as a testament to the enduring impact he had within Caverton Offshore Support Group and the broader financial community in Nigeria. His legacy is one that, despite his passing, will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know him.
