Abbey Mortgage Bank Appoints John Okonkwo as Executive Director for Finance, Risk, and Operations

Abbey Mortgage Bank Plc, a prominent player in Nigeria’s mortgage industry, has announced the appointment of Mr. John Okonkwo as its new Executive Director of Finance, Risk, and Operations.

In a statement released on Wednesday, the bank confirmed that the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has granted regulatory approval for the appointment after a comprehensive review process.

Okonkwo brings over 20 years of experience spanning finance, operations, auditing, risk management, and corporate governance, primarily within the financial services sector. He is recognized as a seasoned professional with a strong track record in strategic leadership and institutional development.

A KPMG-trained accountant, Mr. Okonkwo is a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), an Associate of the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria, and an alumnus of the Advanced Management Programme at Lagos Business School.

His professional background includes senior roles at Heirs Holdings Group, United Bank for Africa (UBA), and VFD Group Plc, where he contributed to strengthening governance, risk, and compliance frameworks. Abbey Mortgage Bank believes this expertise will play a key role in enhancing its resilience and operational performance.

In his new position, Okonkwo will oversee the bank’s finance, risk management, and operational units, ensuring strategic alignment with the institution’s goal of delivering innovative and customer-focused financial solutions.

High Chief Samuel Oni, Chairman of the Board, expressed confidence in the appointment:
“We are pleased to welcome John to the Board. His vast experience in finance, risk, and governance will significantly bolster our institutional capabilities as we pursue sustainable growth.”

Managing Director Mobolaji Adewumi echoed the sentiment, noting the importance of the appointment at this phase of the bank’s development:
“John joins at a pivotal moment in our transformation journey. His leadership will reinforce our operational strength and further our commitment to building a resilient and efficient bank.”

Abbey Mortgage Bank continues to offer a broad range of services—including mortgage lending, construction finance, equity release, savings and investment products, and digital banking via the AbbeyMobile app—as it strives to simplify homeownership and financial planning for Nigerians. The bank expects Okonkwo’s appointment to further accelerate its growth and impact in the mortgage sector.