Standard Chartered Bank Nigeria Limited has confirmed Ayodeji Adelagun as its Chief Executive Officer following regulatory approval from the Central Bank of Nigeria, strengthening its local leadership as it targets sustainable growth and deeper connections between Nigerian businesses and international markets.
The bank announced the appointment in a statement made available to Bzzyer on Tuesday, noting that Adelagun, popularly known as Deji, had served as acting CEO since January 2026.
His confirmation comes as financial institutions navigate changing market conditions and businesses seek improved access to international capital, trade financing and investment opportunities.
With more than 26 years of experience in banking and financial markets across Africa, Adelagun brings extensive experience in treasury, trading and capital markets to the role. He joined Standard Chartered in 2007 and has since held several senior leadership positions within the bank.
His previous roles include Executive Director and Head of Markets for Nigeria and Africa, Head of Rates and Credit Trading for West Africa, Chairman of the board of Standard Chartered Capital and Advisory Nigeria, and Head of Markets for Africa.
Commenting on his confirmation, Adelagun described Nigeria as a significant long-term opportunity for the bank, saying he would build on its existing operations to deliver greater value to clients and the wider economy.
“My focus will be on deepening our client relationships, driving disciplined and sustainable growth, and bringing the full strength of Standard Chartered’s international network and capabilities to clients in Nigeria,” he said.
He added that the bank would connect Nigerian businesses and investors with opportunities across Africa, Asia, the Middle East and other international markets, while supporting capital flows and investment into the country.
His appointment comes at a time when access to international financing remains important for Nigerian businesses seeking to expand beyond the domestic market. Standard Chartered’s international network could help companies navigate cross-border transactions, attract foreign investment and access financial services that support trade and expansion.
However, translating those advantages into broader economic benefits will depend on how effectively the bank responds to the financing needs of Nigerian businesses, particularly companies seeking to grow their international operations.
Adelagun’s role in Nigeria’s capital market
Beyond his executive responsibilities, Adelagun has contributed to the development of Nigeria’s domestic capital market.
Standard Chartered said he led a workstream that introduced benchmark bonds in Nigeria, an initiative the bank credited with helping deepen the domestic bond market and supporting the country’s inclusion in the JPMorgan Emerging Markets Index.
He also pioneered bond trading desks at FSDH and Standard Chartered Bank, helping develop trading capabilities in Nigeria’s financial markets.
Earlier in his career, Adelagun worked in banking operations, commercial banking and treasury at Access Bank Plc, building experience across several core areas of financial services.
His background in capital markets could prove particularly relevant as Nigerian companies and public institutions seek funding options beyond traditional bank lending.
Deeper bond markets and stronger connections with international investors can broaden financing choices, although the benefits depend on investor confidence, market liquidity and the cost of raising capital.
Education and professional qualifications
Adelagun holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Economics from the University of Ilorin and a Master of Business Administration from Lagos Business School.
He is also an alumnus of the Executive Management Programme at IESE Business School and has undertaken executive education at INSEAD.
His professional affiliations include fellowship of the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria, the Financial Markets Dealers Association and the ACI Financial Markets Association.
Standard Chartered said his confirmation reflects its commitment to local leadership and disciplined execution as it continues to serve clients and pursue long-term opportunities in Nigeria.
As he assumes the substantive role, his immediate challenge will be to turn the bank’s international reach and capital markets expertise into stronger client relationships, sustainable business growth and greater access to cross-border financial opportunities for Nigerian businesses.
