NOVA Bank Limited has appointed Jude Anele as its new Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, following approval from the Central Bank of Nigeria.
The appointment comes at a key moment for the bank as it completes its transition from a merchant bank to a full commercial bank. It has also successfully met recapitalisation requirements ahead of the March 31, 2026 deadline, strengthening its position for future growth.
Anele brings over 30 years of banking experience across West and Central Africa. His expertise spans retail and commercial banking, corporate banking, risk management and institutional transformation.
YOU CAN ALSO READ: Nigeria, The Gambia, Liberia and Others Partner AfDB to Modernize Revenue Collection
Throughout his career, he has led major operations, improved governance systems and driven steady revenue growth while building strong teams.
His appointment reflects the board’s plan to strengthen the bank’s commercial banking operations and expand across Corporate, Commercial and Retail segments, especially in key markets.
Speaking on his new role, Anele said the bank has already built a strong foundation based on compliance, capital strength and governance. He noted that the next phase will focus on execution, including deeper customer relationships, responsible expansion, stronger risk management and long term value creation.
Chairman Phillips Oduoza expressed confidence in the new CEO, citing his experience and leadership as critical to the bank’s growth plans. He added that with recapitalisation completed early, the bank is now entering a phase of scale, stability and structured expansion.
The bank also confirmed it has fully met the recapitalisation requirements set by the Central Bank of Nigeria. This has strengthened its capital base and overall financial position, supported by both new and existing investors.
In 2025, Global Credit Rating reaffirmed the bank’s ratings at BBB NG and A3 NG. Agusto & Co. also maintained its Bbb rating with a stable outlook, reflecting strong capital, good liquidity and solid asset quality.
YOU CAN ALSO READ: Marriott Chief Predicts AI Revolution in Hotel Customer Acquisition
NOVA Bank currently operates in Lagos, Abuja, Owerri and Port Harcourt. It plans to open eight new branches across key commercial cities in 2026 as part of its expansion strategy.
The launch of its regional office in Owerri marks a major step in its South East and South South growth plans. This move highlights the bank’s commitment to supporting businesses and driving economic growth in these regions.
With new leadership in place and a stronger financial base, NOVA Bank is now focused on execution and expanding its impact across Nigeria.
