Wema Bank, a prominent financial institution in Nigeria, celebrated its 80th anniversary in a unique and impactful way, intertwining its legacy with a commitment to nurturing future generations. As part of its 2025 Children’s Day commemorations, the bank launched an innovative initiative that culminated in the appointment of 12-year-old Chiderije Mbah as its One-Day Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer. This symbolic gesture underscored Wema Bank’s dedication to investing in the youth and fostering their financial literacy, effectively bridging the past with the future leaders of tomorrow.
Mbah’s journey to the coveted position began with a social media challenge designed to engage children across the country. The contest invited children to express their aspirations within the banking sector through short videos, creatively incorporating Wema Bank’s signature colors. Participants were also encouraged to link their entries with the bank’s youth-centric financial products: the Royal Kiddies Account, catering to children aged 0-12, and the ALAT Xplore Wallet, tailored for teenagers aged 13-17. This clever integration of financial education within a fun and engaging activity showcased Wema Bank’s commitment to early financial literacy and empowerment.
Among dozens of submissions, Mbah’s video resonated with the selection committee. His spirited presentation, articulating his dream of leading a bank and his vision for making finance more accessible and enjoyable for children, captured the essence of the initiative. His enthusiasm and forward-thinking approach aligned perfectly with Wema Bank’s commitment to innovation and customer-centricity. Mbah’s vision, coupled with his evident passion, distinguished him as the ideal candidate for the One-Day MD/CEO role.
On May 27, 2025, the day of his symbolic appointment, Mbah was welcomed with a grand purple-carpet reception, befitting the significance of the occasion. His day as Wema Bank’s leader was meticulously planned to provide him with a comprehensive overview of the bank’s operations and leadership dynamics. He was given a guided tour of the bank’s headquarters, offering him a glimpse into the inner workings of the institution. Furthermore, he participated in an executive briefing session in the boardroom, interacting with senior executives and gaining valuable insights into strategic decision-making processes. The culmination of his experience involved addressing the bank’s senior management, an opportunity that allowed him to share his unique perspective and inspire the leadership team.
Mbah’s experience as Wema Bank’s One-Day MD/CEO was transformative. He expressed his elation, describing the day as the “best of his life,” emphasizing the feeling of importance instilled by Wema Bank. He highlighted the valuable lessons he learned about leadership and banking operations, expressing a newfound understanding of the financial world. Inspired by his experience, he pledged to encourage his peers to open Royal Kiddies Accounts, fostering a culture of saving and financial responsibility among his friends. His enthusiasm demonstrated the ripple effect of Wema Bank’s initiative, extending beyond a single individual to influence a broader community of young people.
Moruf Oseni, the Managing Director/CEO of Wema Bank, elucidated the significance of this initiative within the context of the bank’s 80th anniversary. He emphasized the importance of reflecting on the past while simultaneously focusing on the future, recognizing that the next generation, represented by young individuals like Mbah, holds the key to future progress. Oseni highlighted that the Children’s Day activity served as a powerful testament to the bank’s belief in the potential of children. By providing this unique platform, Wema Bank demonstrated its commitment to listening to the aspirations of the youth and supporting their journey towards financial, personal, and professional success. The initiative served as an embodiment of Wema Bank’s dedication to empowering the future generation, reinforcing its role not just as a financial institution, but as a catalyst for positive change within the community.
