In a significant leadership transition at one of Nigeria’s leading financial institutions, Mr. Ebenezer Ademola Kolawole (FCA) has been appointed the Acting Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Unity Bank Plc, following the retirement of Mrs. Oluwatomi Somefun, who completed her tenure with a legacy of impactful service.
The announcement was made during the 18th Annual General Meeting of the bank, held in Lagos, after receiving necessary approval from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).
Reacting to the news of this strategic appointment, Hero Magazine, through its Publisher, Amb. Dr. Sunday Akinbiola, has extended a warm and heartfelt congratulations to Mr. Kolawole, describing the appointment as “a well-earned progression for a man whose professional journey exemplifies integrity, excellence, and vision.”
“This is not just an appointment; it is a reward for years of consistency, brilliance, and unflinching dedication to the growth of Nigeria’s financial sector. Mr. Kolawole’s story is that of quiet excellence, the kind of leadership Nigeria needs more of,” Dr. Akinbiola said.With over three decades of experience across top-tier financial institutions, Mr. Kolawole brings to the role a wealth of knowledge, sharp financial acumen, and a proven track record of transformative leadership.
From his early days at Caribbean Finance Limited in 1992, through his impactful tenures at Ecobank Nigeria, Standard Trust Bank, and notably as Chief Financial Officer at United Bank for Africa (UBA), he has built a reputation as a results-driven strategist. His work at Mainstreet Bank Ltd., where he served as Group CFO during a pivotal transformation phase, further positioned him as a turnaround expert.
Mr. Kolawole joined Unity Bank Plc in 2015 as Chief Financial Officer, where his leadership quickly stood out. By 2018, he was appointed Executive Director, overseeing key departments such as Finance, Operations, and Information Technology. His strategic input has played a central role in Unity Bank’s cost optimization, innovation, and improved market positioning.
Mr. Kolawole’s appointment is a reflection of Unity Bank’s forward-thinking succession plan and a commitment to continuity at the helm. It also underscores the bank’s confidence in his ability to lead with clarity, courage, and competence at a time when the financial sector demands strong and steady hands.
Dr. Akinbiola praised Kolawole’s humility, work ethic, and vision.
“Beyond the titles and accolades, Mr. Kolawole is a grounded professional, a team player, and a humble achiever. We believe he will continue to uphold the values of Unity Bank while charting new paths of growth and sustainability,” he added.Mr. Kolawole is a First-Class Accounting graduate from Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife. He has furthered his executive education at Columbia Business School, New York and The Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania, adding international flair to his already impressive portfolio.
He is a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (FCA), a Fellow of the Institute of Credit Administration (FICA), an Honorary Member of the Chartered Institute of Bankers (HCIB), and holds memberships in numerous professional and leadership bodies, including the Institute of Directors (IoD).
In the same vein, Hero Magazine salutes Mrs. Oluwatomi Somefun, whose remarkable service as Managing Director/CEO helped stabilize and steer Unity Bank over the years. A veteran banker with over 35 years of experience, her tenure leaves behind a legacy of innovation, resilience, and industry respect.
“Mrs. Somefun deserves every accolade. She led with distinction and laid a solid foundation. Mr. Kolawole is certainly the right man to build on that,” Dr. Akinbiola concluded.As Unity Bank embarks on a new chapter under Mr. Kolawole’s leadership, Hero Magazine joins stakeholders across the country in wishing him continued wisdom, strength, and success in this elevated role.
