Immediate past President of Afreximbank, Prof Benedict Okey Oramah, has been praised for his transformational leadership at Africa’s foremost trade finance institution and for being a “silent architect of change” across the continent.

The commendation came from Prof Ngozi Egbuna, Director of the International Center for Regional Integration and Trade Research (ICRITR) at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, in a statement issued to journalists on Monday, October 27.

Prof Egbuna said Prof Oramah’s decade at the helm of Afreximbank has been “nothing short of inspiring,” resulting in institutional achievements “that now form an enduring chapter in Africa’s economic history.”

She noted that beyond his official role, the retiring bank chief has quietly influenced lives and strengthened institutions through mentorship, encouragement, and strategic support.

“From my time on secondment from the Central Bank of Nigeria as Director General of the West African Monetary Institute (WAMI) in Accra, I witnessed firsthand his commitment to uplifting people and enabling them to excel,” she said. “The success stories we see today are only a glimpse of a much deeper legacy.”

Prof Egbuna thanked him for his supportive guidance over the years and wished him continued success in his future endeavors.

Prof Oramah retired on Friday, October 24, 2025, after serving as Afreximbank’s third President. He spent more than 30 years at the institution, which he joined in 1994 as part of its pioneer staff following his tenure at the Nigerian Export-Import Bank (NEXIM). He holds a doctorate degree in Agricultural Economics from Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife.