Razaq Ahmed Elected as President of CFA Society Nigeria, Ushering in a New Era of Growth and Impact
The CFA Society Nigeria has announced the election of Razaq Ahmed, co-founder and CEO of Cowrywise, as its fourth president. Ahmed’s tenure commences on March 21, 2025, succeeding Ibukun Oyedeji, who will continue to contribute to the society’s progress as an ex-officio board member. This transition marks a significant milestone for the organization, as it embarks on a new chapter under the leadership of a seasoned financial technology expert. Ahmed’s appointment comes at a crucial juncture for the Nigerian financial landscape, where innovation and technology are rapidly reshaping the investment management industry. His extensive experience in fintech and wealth management positions him ideally to steer the CFA Society Nigeria towards achieving its strategic objectives and further solidify its role in promoting ethical and professional standards within the investment community.
Ahmed’s leadership at Cowrywise, a prominent player in Africa’s wealth-tech sector, has been marked by remarkable achievements. He has successfully navigated the regulatory landscape, securing necessary approvals and attracting significant global investments, which have propelled Cowrywise to the forefront of the digital wealth management revolution. His entrepreneurial acumen and deep understanding of the evolving financial landscape are expected to bring a fresh perspective and innovative approach to the CFA Society Nigeria. Upon his election, Ahmed expressed his profound honor and outlined his vision for the future, emphasizing bold ambition, increased impact, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. These guiding principles are expected to shape the society’s activities and initiatives, ensuring that it remains a leading voice in the Nigerian financial industry.
The newly constituted board of governors, elected alongside Ahmed, comprises a diverse group of accomplished professionals representing various sectors of the financial industry. Their collective expertise and leadership experience will be instrumental in guiding the CFA Society Nigeria towards fulfilling its mission of promoting ethical practices and advancing professional development within the investment management profession. The board’s composition reflects the society’s commitment to inclusivity and its recognition of the importance of diverse perspectives in addressing the complex challenges and opportunities facing the Nigerian financial market.
Among the distinguished members of the board is Oginni, the CEO of United Capital Asset Management, who brings a wealth of experience in overseeing multi-asset strategies with a portfolio exceeding N1 trillion. Samuel Sule, Group CEO of Renaissance Capital Africa, contributes his expertise in capital financing and mergers and acquisitions, further strengthening the board’s capabilities in investment banking and corporate finance. Frank Nnamka, a manager at PwC Nigeria’s deals practice, specializing in corporate finance and investment strategy, adds valuable insights into financial advisory and transaction execution. Bukola Akerele, a senior banking executive at Zenith Bank, with extensive experience in oil and gas sector trade and finance transactions, brings a specialized perspective on a critical sector of the Nigerian economy.
Wale Okunrinboye, the Chief Investment Officer at Access ARM Pensions, responsible for managing one of Nigeria’s largest pension funds, provides crucial expertise in retirement planning and long-term investment management. Kike Mesubi, Managing Director of RMB Nigeria Asset Management, overseeing a portfolio of over N60 billion, further enhances the board’s asset management expertise. This diverse and highly qualified board is well-equipped to provide strategic guidance and oversight to the CFA Society Nigeria, ensuring that it remains a dynamic and influential force in the Nigerian financial ecosystem.
The CFA Society Nigeria’s commitment to education and professional development is exemplified by its recent collaboration with FMDQNext, an initiative aimed at empowering students with essential investment skills. This program provided students of Ekiti State University with practical training, including live trading experience on the FMDQ platform in Lagos. This initiative underscores the society’s dedication to nurturing the next generation of investment professionals and equipping them with the necessary knowledge and skills to succeed in the ever-evolving financial industry. By investing in educational programs and fostering collaboration with key stakeholders, the CFA Society Nigeria reinforces its commitment to advancing financial literacy and promoting ethical practices within the investment community. This commitment to education and mentorship is crucial for building a strong and sustainable financial ecosystem in Nigeria.
