Who is Julius Omodayo-Owotuga? Meet the new Executive Director of FirstBank
Julius Omodayo-Owotuga. Image Credit: Nairametrics
First Bank of Nigeria has announced the appointment of Julius Omodayo-Owotuga as Executive Director, marking a major leadership addition for one of Nigeria’s oldest financial institutions.
The appointment, which took effect on May 13, 2026, was disclosed through a filing on the Nigerian Exchange and has already generated significant attention across Nigeria’s banking and corporate sectors.
The move comes as FirstBank continues efforts to strengthen its governance structure, institutional resilience, risk management framework, and long-term growth strategy.
But who exactly is Julius Omodayo-Owotuga, and why is his appointment considered significant?
Julius Omodayo-Owotuga’s Career Spans Banking, Energy and Finance
Dr. Julius B. Omodayo-Owotuga is widely recognised in Nigeria’s corporate sector for his extensive experience in banking, infrastructure finance, treasury management, auditing, consulting, and energy financing.
According to FirstBank, he brings over 24 years of professional experience cutting across banking and financial services, power, oil and gas, infrastructure finance, governance, and institutional transformation.
Industry observers often describe him as a “turnaround expert” because of his involvement in restructuring and transformation projects at major Nigerian companies.
Before joining FirstBank’s executive leadership, Omodayo-Owotuga served as Deputy Chief Executive of Geregu Power, where he reportedly played key roles in governance restructuring, operational optimisation, institutional processes, financing activities, and the company’s listing on the Nigerian Exchange.
His Role at Forte Oil and Other Major Companies
Prior to Geregu Power, Omodayo-Owotuga held the position of Group Executive Director for Finance and Risk Management at Ardova Plc, formerly known as Forte Oil Plc.
At the company, he was involved in enterprise risk management, financial restructuring, and capital-raising initiatives during a critical phase of the organisation’s growth.
His professional journey has also included roles at major institutions such as Africa Finance Corporation, Standard Chartered Bank, KPMG, and MBC International Bank, which later became part of First Bank of Nigeria.
The combination of banking, consulting, and corporate restructuring experience is seen as one of the major strengths he brings into FirstBank’s executive management.
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Strong Academic and Professional Background
Omodayo-Owotuga also possesses a strong academic profile.
He holds a bachelor’s degree in Accounting, a Master of Business Administration (MBA), and a Doctorate in Business Administration.
In addition, he is an alumnus of globally recognised institutions including the University of Oxford’s Saïd Business School, IE Business School, Geneva Business School, and the University of Lagos.
Professionally, he is a CFA Charterholder and a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN), and the Institute of Credit Administration.
He is also a member of the Institute of Directors Nigeria.
Why FirstBank’s Appointment Matters
The appointment is viewed as a strategic move by FirstBank and its parent company, First HoldCo Plc, especially at a time when Nigerian banks are increasingly focused on corporate governance, risk management, digital transformation, and financial sustainability.
In its official statement, FirstBank said the appointment reinforces its commitment to disciplined execution, strong governance, financial resilience, and sustainable long-term growth.
The appointment was also approved by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), further confirming regulatory confidence in his leadership credentials.
Before moving into the executive role, Omodayo-Owotuga had already served as a Non-Executive Director on the board of First HoldCo between 2021 and 2026.
His familiarity with the group’s operations is expected to ease his transition into executive management.
FirstBank’s Current Leadership Structure
First Bank of Nigeria is currently chaired by Ebenezer Olufowose.
The bank’s Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer is Olusegun Alebiosu, while Ini-Ebiong serves as Deputy Managing Director.
Other executive directors include Shehu Aliyu, Oluseyi Oyefeso, and Biyi Olagbami.
Analysts believe Omodayo-Owotuga’s addition could strengthen the bank’s strategic positioning as competition intensifies within Nigeria’s financial services sector.
His experience across multiple industries may also help FirstBank navigate emerging economic and operational challenges in the years ahead.
FAQ: Julius Omodayo-Owotuga and FirstBank Appointment
Who is Julius Omodayo-Owotuga?
Julius Omodayo-Owotuga is a Nigerian banking and finance executive with over 24 years of experience in banking, infrastructure finance, power, oil and gas, auditing, consulting, and risk management.
What position was Julius Omodayo-Owotuga appointed to?
He was appointed Executive Director of First Bank of Nigeria effective May 13, 2026.
Which companies has Julius Omodayo-Owotuga worked for?
He has worked with Geregu Power, Ardova Plc, Africa Finance Corporation, Standard Chartered Bank, KPMG, and MBC International Bank.
Why is his appointment important?
His appointment strengthens FirstBank’s leadership in governance, strategic finance, institutional transformation, and risk management.
Did the Central Bank of Nigeria approve the appointment?
Yes. The appointment received approval from the Central Bank of Nigeria.
What qualifications does Julius Omodayo-Owotuga have?
He holds a doctorate in Business Administration, an MBA, and a bachelor’s degree in Accounting. He is also a CFA Charterholder and an ICAN Fellow.
What role did he play at Geregu Power?
At Geregu Power, he served as Deputy Chief Executive and helped oversee governance restructuring, financing activities, and the company’s NGX listing.
What is First HoldCo Plc?
First HoldCo Plc is the parent company of First Bank of Nigeria and other financial subsidiaries.
Was Julius Omodayo-Owotuga previously connected to FirstBank?
Yes. He previously served as a Non-Executive Director on the board of First HoldCo between 2021 and 2026.
What is Julius Omodayo-Owotuga known for?
He is widely recognised for expertise in finance, restructuring, governance, risk management, and institutional transformation across banking and energy sectors.