Afriland Properties Plc has appointed Agatha Obiekwugo as chair of its board of directors, succeeding Emmanuel Nnorom, who is retiring after more than a decade in the position.

The company announced the appointment in a statement on Monday, describing the transition as part of efforts to ensure continuity in board leadership and strengthen corporate governance.

Ms Obiekwugo joined the board in October 2018 as a non-executive director. She served on the Finance, Risk and General-Purpose Committee and the Nomination, Audit and Governance Committee.

In her new role, she is expected to provide strategic oversight as the company expands its real estate portfolio and strengthens its presence in the Nigerian market.

Ms Obiekwugo has more than 30 years of experience spanning banking, commerce, information technology, consulting, and the oil and gas industry.

She is the founder and chief executive officer of Adassa Energy, an oil and gas company with interests across the upstream and downstream sectors.

She also serves on the boards of Heirs Insurance Brokers and Houce Ltd. and is a founding member of the Women in Energy Network and a member of the Institute of Directors Nigeria.

The new chairman holds an MBA in marketing from ESUT Business School and a Bachelor of Arts degree in English from Edo State University.

She also holds a certification from the Strategy Execution Programme at Harvard Business School and has completed several executive development programmes and professional courses.

The company said Mr Nnorom, who joined the board in 2014, had provided dedicated leadership during his tenure as chairman.

Azubike Emodi, managing director of Afriland Properties, thanked Nnorom for his contributions to the company.

“We are grateful to Emmanuel Nnorom for his dedicated service, leadership and invaluable contribution to the company over the years. His experience and stewardship have made a lasting contribution to the board and the company,” Mr Emodi said.

He also welcomed Ms Obiekwugo, saying her board experience and broad business background would support the company’s strategic direction.

“We are equally pleased to welcome Agatha Obiekwugo as chairman.

“Having served on the board for several years, she brings a strong understanding of the company alongside broad business experience and an entrepreneurial perspective.

“We look forward to her leadership as we continue to execute our strategy and create long-term value for our stakeholders,” he said.

Afriland Properties is a real estate investment, development and management company involved in the development, management and maintenance of real estate assets across Africa.

(NAN)