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Tag: CRC Credit Bureau Limited

  • CRC Credit Bureau appoints director

    CRC Credit Bureau appoints director

    CRC Credit Bureau Limited has appointed Patrick Akhidenor as a Non-Executive Director (NED).

    This followed the approval of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). Akhidenor joined the board as the representative of First Bank of Nigeria Limited, succeeding Olusegun Alebiosu, who was recently appointed the Group Managing Director of First Bank.

    He brought to CRC over three decades of distinguished experience in the banking and financial services industry, with expertise spanning credit and risk management, corporate finance, operations, and strategic leadership.

    Akhidenor currently serves as the Chief Risk Officer (CRO) at First Bank of Nigeria Limited, a position he assumed in July 2024, where he has been instrumental in strengthening the bank’s credit and enterprise risk frameworks, driving strategic initiatives, and ensuring operational excellence across multiple markets.

    Speaking on this appointment, the Chairman of the Board, Mr. Joel Owoade, commended the selection of Mr. Akhidenor as Non-Executive Director of CRC. He stated:

     “We are delighted to welcome Mr. Patrick Akhidenor to CRC’s Board. His wealth of experience in credit, risk management, and governance will further strengthen CRC’s strategic focus as we continue to promote responsible lending, financial inclusion, and data-driven credit infrastructure in Nigeria and beyond.”

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    Managing Director, CRC Credit Bureau, Dr. ‘Tunde Popoola, added that the decision to bring Akhidenor on board reflected CRC’s unwavering commitment to corporate governance and its ambition to remain the leading credit bureau in Nigeria and Africa.

    He noted that this addition will not only strengthen the company’s governance framework but also accelerate innovation in credit reporting and financial inclusion. Describing the appointment as well-deserved, he expressed confidence that Akhidenor’s extensive experience will drive CRC toward even greater achievements.

    Prior to his current role, Akhidenor served as Head of Credit Analysis and Processing at First Bank and previously acted as Chief Risk Officer in 2016. He began his professional career in 1992 with Savannah Bank of Nigeria Plc, and over the years has held several strategic positions, including Regional Risk Manager (South-South & South-East) at Ecobank Nigeria, Credit Service Delivery Manager (SME Banking) at Standard Chartered Bank, and Risk Manager roles covering Wholesale Banking, Retail & SME Banking, and Loan Monitoring.

    He has also served as Deputy Branch Manager at Citizens International Bank and Risk Manager at Fidelity Bank, where he played key roles in credit risk management, loan monitoring, and audit risk reviews. His career spans critical areas such as credit structuring, due diligence for cross-border acquisitions, risk analysis, trade and SME finance, and corporate governance, reinforcing his reputation as a seasoned risk and compliance professional.

    A trained lawyer and communications professional, Mr. Akhidenor holds a Barrister-at-Law (BL) from the Nigerian Law School, an LL.B from Lagos State University, and a B.A. (Hons) in English from Bendel State University (now Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma).

    Beyond his professional achievements, Akhidenor is a trainer and advocate for climate and sustainability, with a passion for mentoring and community development.

  • CRC Credit Bureau appoints new Executive Director

    CRC Credit Bureau appoints new Executive Director

    CRC Credit Bureau Limited has appointed Mrs. Jelilat Kareem as executive director.

    Board Chair, Joel Owoade, lauded the choice, noting the board places great emphasis on corporate governance and that her elevation aligns with the firm’s succession planning policy.

    He noted that the appointment would strengthen the company’s management, and because it was made from within, it would boost the morale of Mrs. Kareem and the staff.

    Managing Director, Dr. ‘Tunde Popoola, described the appointment as historic, being the first for the institution. According to him, Mrs. Kareem deserves her place on the board, having been part of the company since 2008.

    He emphasised that her appointment is a reward for hard work, diligence, and performance, reflecting CRC’s commitment to rewarding excellence and empowering capable talent from within.

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    Mrs. Kareem joined the company in 2008 as head of Finance and Corporate Services, and through her contributions, rose to chief Operating officer, overseeing Finance, Enterprise-Wide Services, Operations, and Technology functions. Her leadership has strengthened governance, enhanced efficiency, and deepened quality of the company’s delivery service. With over 24 years of experience, Jelilat brings a wealth of knowledge and a passion for excellence to this new role.

    She holds a bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Economics from Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Osun State, and a Master’s in Economics from University of Lagos. She is an associate of ICAN, Fellow of ACCA, and alumna of Lagos Business School and Wharton Business School.

    CRC Credit Bureau has, over the years, remained a pioneer and leader in Nigeria’s credit information services industry. The company has built a strong reputation as a trusted institution guided by integrity and excellence, helping lenders and businesses make informed financial choices while fostering a stronger credit culture across the nation.