The Nigerian Exchange Group Plc (NGX Group) on Thursday confirmed the appointment of Jude Chiemeka as the CEO of Nigerian Exchange Ltd. (NGX), its operating exchange subsidiary, effective July 1.

NGX, in a statement, said the appointment was sequel to an approval of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

Mr Chiemeka has served as the acting CEO of NGX since January 1.

He succeeded Temi Popoola, who transitioned to group managing director of the NGX Group.

Also, the group chairman of NGX Group, Umaru Kwairanga, said the strategic appointment aligns perfectly with the Exchange’s succession plan.

Mr Kwairanga stated that the appointment reinforces the synergy that NGX continuously foster across its group operations.

He said, “Chiemeka’s extensive experience and proven leadership qualities are invaluable assets that will propel NGX towards long-term success.

“Under his leadership, I am confident that NGX will play an even more pivotal role in contributing to the sustainable growth of Nigeria’s and Africa’s economies.”

Ahonsi Unuigbe, chairman of NGX, expressed the satisfaction of the board of NGX in confirming Mr Chiemeka’s appointment as CEO of the Exchange.

“It is our hope and expectation that he will drive growth and innovation, enhance our operational perspectives, democratise investment in the capital market, and unlock opportunities for investors,” Mr Unuigbe said.

Temi Popoola, the GMD/CEO of the NGX Group, expressed delight at seeing Mr Chiemeka step into the role of NGX CEO.

Mr Popoola added that Mr Chiemeka’s extensive experience and deep understanding of the markets will be crucial in driving NGX’s growth while aligning with a broader group strategy.

“I look forward to working closely with him to unlock value and to create new opportunities for stakeholders across the entire NGX Group ecosystem,” he said.

Mr Chiemeka said he was honoured with the appointment during this critical period of the Exchange’s history while appreciating the boards of NGX Group and NGX.

“As we aim to build on our achievements and maximise value for all stakeholders, I look forward to forging strong collaborations with NGX’s exceptional team and the broader capital market community.

“We are committed to creating a more dynamic and inclusive exchange that fuels Nigeria’s economic growth and competes on the global stage,” the NGX CEO said.

Mr Chiemeka brings close to three decades of experience in African securities trading and asset management to his new role.

His career includes serving as executive director of Capital Markets at NGX and managing director of United Capital Securities Ltd. He also worked at leading investment banking firms in Nigeria, such as Chapel Hill Denham Securities and Rencap Securities (Nigeria).

A fellow of the Chartered Institute of Stockbrokers, Mr Chiemeka is an alumnus of the University of Lagos, Lagos Business School, and the University of Oxford, UK.

(NAN)