Dr. Adesola Kazeem Adeduntan said, “Leadership is not about being the best, but about making others better.” He left a great legacy wherever his service was needed.
Nigeria’s premier university, the University of Ibadan, will confer an honorary Doctor of Science degree on one of its most distinguished alumni, Dr. Adesola Kazeem Adeduntan, at its 77th (1948-2025) National Day and 2025 Convocation Ceremony to be held on Monday, November 17, 2025. This prestigious award recognizes Dr. Adeduntan’s outstanding contributions. His pioneering leadership in the Nigerian financial sector and the African financial services industry.
Dr. Adeduntan’s remarkable journey is a testament to the power of intelligence, curiosity, and determination. Born on May 7, 1969 into a respected Oriolowo family, he began his academic journey at IMG Primary School, Adeyoyo N4, Yemetu Aladrin and Urban Day Grammar School, Old Ife Road, Ibadan. His academic excellence led him to enter the University of Ibadan, where he graduated with a Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) in 1992.
What followed was an innovative path that defied conventional wisdom. Dr. Adeduntan transitioned from veterinary medicine to international finance and used his formidable intellect and insatiable curiosity to become one of Africa’s most respected and influential figures. His journey is a shining example of how talent, hard work and a willingness to explore new horizons can lead to unparalleled success. Dr. Adeduntan’s story is an inspiration to Nigerians and African youth, showing that with passion, dedication and a strong work ethic, possibilities are limitless.
His professional journey is a tribute to his unwavering commitment to excellence. Starting out as a graduate trainee at Afribank Nigeria (now part of Polaris Bank), he quickly emerged as a rising star in the financial sector. During his time at Arthur Andersen and KPMG, he further developed his skills in assurance, risk management, and advisory services and rose to the position of senior manager in the financial services division. These important roles laid the foundation for his future success and gave him the expertise and knowledge to navigate the complexities of global finance.
His academic journey is a testament to his insatiable thirst for knowledge and unwavering commitment to excellence. Despite his background in veterinary medicine, Dr Adeduntan decided to pursue a career in finance and registered with the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) and became a Chartered Accountant in 2000. This milestone marked the beginning of an outstanding academic trajectory that saw him earn an MBA as a Chevening Scholar at Cranfield University in the UK. His academic pursuits have led him to some of the world’s most prestigious universities, including Harvard University, Stanford University, and Oxford University, demonstrating his dedication to lifelong learning and professional growth.
Dr. Adeduntan’s achievements have been highlighted by Fellowships from the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (FCIB) and the Nigerian Institute of Chartered Accountants (FCA), as well as recognition for his outstanding contributions to the field by Cranfield University and the University of Ibadan. His award of an honorary Doctor of Science degree from Cranfield University in 2022 is a tribute to his lasting impact on the world of finance. This quintessential financial professional’s success in the international financial world is a testament to his extraordinary talent, dedication, and worldwide recognition.
He joined Citibank as vice president and chief financial officer (CFO) of its Nigerian subsidiary, quickly proving himself and being promoted to senior vice president within 15 months. In the next chapter, I shared my expertise as the pioneer CFO and business manager of the African Finance Corporation (AFC) in shaping the institution’s operational framework and securing a prestigious international credit rating. This achievement is a record that still stands and solidified AFC’s position as Africa’s leading multilateral financial institution. Dr. Adeduntan’s remarkable rise in the international financial arena is a shining example of how Nigerian talent is excelling in the international arena, inspiring future generations to pursue excellence in the financial sector and beyond.
His leadership at FirstBank Group has been truly transformational. He joined the bank in 2014 as Managing Director and Group Chief Financial Officer and was appointed Group Chief Executive Officer in 2016, leading the bank through a period of remarkable turnaround and growth. Under his leadership, First Bank achieved unprecedented success, with profitability soaring 32 times and market capitalization exceeding 1 trillion naira. His commitment to financial inclusion has empowered millions of people by creating more than 450,000 jobs and expanding access to banking services through the FirstMonie agent network. Dr. Adedantan’s digital revolution has redefined the banking experience, with the number of customer accounts increasing from 10 million to 42 million and over 90% of transactions being done digitally.
His vision for expansion across Africa has positioned FirstBank as a leading player in the region, with subsidiaries contributing over 30% of group revenues.
In recognition of this significant and unusual organizational revitalization, the numerous awards First Bank received during his tenure include being consistently voted the Best Bank in Nigeria by Global Finance Magazine; Best Retail Banks in Nigeria by The Asian Banker. Best Companies in Nigeria by Euromoney (2022 and 2023). Best Corporate Bank in West Africa (2022) by Bankers Awards. Financial Institution of the Year (2023) by Afrexim Best Private Bank in Nigeria by World Finance (2016, 2017, 2020). Selected as Best Core Banking Application Implementation (2021) at Asian Bankers Awards. All these honors are a testament to Dr. Adeduntan’s outstanding leadership and commitment to excellence. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations of bankers and leaders.
Dr. Adesola Kazeem Aduntan’s influence extends far beyond the financial sector, profoundly impacting governance, education and socio-economic development across Africa. His expertise and leadership have benefited many institutions including the African Finance Corporation, First Bank of England and the Nigeria Economic Summit Group (NESG).
As a dedicated advocate of education, Dr. Adeduntan is a Trustee of the Sigma Educational Foundation and currently serves as the Rector and Chairman of the Governing Council of the Abiola Ajimobi University of Technology, Ibadan, promoting academic excellence and institutional development. His commitment to national development is evident in his roles as a board member of the Lagos National Security Trust Fund and a member of the Bretton Woods Commission.
Dr. Adeduntan’s extraordinary leadership has received recognition from the highest levels, including accolades from the late Presidents Muhammadu Buhari and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and Congressional appreciation from the South Carolina House of Representatives.
As Chairman of Sequoia Holdings, Dr. Adeduntan continues to shape enterprise, capital formation and economic development across the continent, cementing his legacy as a champion of Africa’s socio-economic growth and development.
Dr. Adeduntan’s leadership philosophy is rooted in a deep commitment to service, faith, and strategic philanthropy. This guiding framework drives his professional decisions, ensuring that commercial success is linked to social growth and progress. His personal beliefs serve as a moral compass and establish a company philosophy that prioritizes ethical responsibility and community involvement. This approach requires companies to contribute to the well-being of the societies they serve and promote sustainable growth and development. His blueprint provides a compelling model for leaders, demonstrating that business success and social responsibility are not mutually exclusive, but interrelated and essential to lasting impact. His legacy inspires a new generation of leaders to prioritize purpose-driven leadership where service, faith, and philanthropy are the foundations of success.
Dr. Adeduntan’s career is rooted in his deep-seated faith and beliefs, which fuel his moral rectitude and self-belief. His bold career transition and leadership demonstrate an unwavering commitment to the potential of Nigeria and Africa. This integrity has earned us trust and recognition as a member of the Bretton Woods Commission, ensuring that our corporate power delivers ethical and community-focused results.
He redefined corporate social responsibility (CSR) as a core driver of value and elevated it from mere compliance to a key organizational framework. His service-oriented approach has advanced financial inclusion, empowered millions of people, and enabled unprecedented social impact. Through his Firstmony agent network, Dr. Adeduntan has created over 450,000 jobs and provided essential financial services to previously unbanked communities. His commitment to national service also extends to his work with CACOVID and the Lagos State Security Trust Fund. His dedication to community development is evident in his latest initiative to build a Primary Health Care Center at Olubadan Palace, Oke Aremo, Ibadan for health services to the neighboring community, as well as his earlier initiative to provide bowling facilities to the community. His leadership shows that business success and social responsibility are intertwined and inspires new standards in CSR.
His philanthropy focuses on empowerment, education and human capital development through an impactful initiative known as the Strategic Program for Progress, Resilience and Knowledge (SPARK), which provides mentorship, digital literacy and skills transfer to young Nigerians. His commitment to educational governance is evident in his roles at the Abiola Ajimobi University of Technology, Ibadan and the Sigma Educational Foundation, which strengthens higher education in Nigeria.
Dr. Adeduntan’s distinguished career has earned him numerous global awards and solidified his position as a leader in African finance. His awards include “African of the Year.” Africa’s Most Innovative Bank CEO and the Banking Sector Lifetime Achievement Award, among others. His recognition extends beyond the financial sector, with esteemed titles such as Honorary Citizenship of the State of Georgia, USA, and Apesin Ora of Ibadanland recognizing his leadership, integrity and service to the community.
Dr. Adeduntan’s success is complemented by a fulfilling family life with his wife Amenat and their adorable children, demonstrating that excellence and personal life can blend beautifully. His legacy is an inspiration and its influence will be felt for generations to come.
It is a well-deserved honor that Dr. (Head) Apesinola, Ibadanland, Dr. Adesola Kazeem Aduntan confers upon you the degree of Doctor of Science (Honoris Causa) from the University of Ibadan in recognition of your: 1. Visionary leadership in banking and finance. 2. Transformative impact on the industry. 3. Unwavering commitment to financial inclusion. Continuous efforts towards economic growth 4. 5. Significant contribution to national development and beyond. 6. Philanthropy towards education. 7. Exemplary role as a global ambassador. 8. Outstanding contribution to humanity. 9. An innovative approach to banking and finance. 10. Strategic thinking and problem-solving skills. 11. Superior performance in corporate governance. 12. A passionate advocate for education and empowerment. 13. Impeccable integrity and professionalism. 14. An inspirational influence on future generations. 15. Extraordinary contribution to the development of Nigeria.
This honorary degree is a testament to your great achievements that have inspired the University of Ibadan community, Ibadanland, Oyo State, Nigeria and beyond. I am very happy to be a part of the celebration of this well-deserved honor. Your visionary leadership, philanthropy, and contribution to national development have earned you this recognition.
As a former Public Relations Officer (PRO) and President of the University of Ibadan Chapter (1990) Ibadan Federation of Students (FIBSU), I am proud to say that you are a rare talent and the pride of our generation. Your impressive qualifications are an inspiration to us all.
Congratulations, brother! Cheers to further success!
. A graduate of the University of Ibadan, Mr. Oladejo is the Chairman of the Progressive Forum of Ibadan (TPFI). Contact: oladejo65@gmail.com, 08077284442.
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