The Nigerian Aviation Handling Company (NAHCO) Plc has strengthened its board with the appointment of renowned legal expert Wolemi Esan (SAN) and FirstBank executive Dr Julius B. Omodayo-Owotuga as Non-Executive Directors. The appointments, effective July 1, 2026, were disclosed in a regulatory filing signed by the company's Secretary, Bello A. Abdullahi, and aim to reinforce the board's expertise in corporate governance, finance, infrastructure, and commercial law.
Board Reshuffle Follows Retirement of Long-Serving Directors
The appointments fill vacancies created by the retirement of Akinwumi Godson Fanimokun and Taofeeq Oluwatoyin Salman. Fanimokun retired due to age considerations after eight years on the board but remains a significant shareholder in the aviation handling company. NAHCO also announced the appointment of Tajudeen Omoshola Shobayo, FCA, as Vice Chairman, succeeding Fanimokun. Shobayo previously served as a Non-Executive Director.
According to the filing, "The Board has approved the appointment of Mr. Wolemi Esan, SAN, and Dr. Julius B. Omodayo-Owotuga as Non-Executive Directors to replace the retired Directors with effect from 1st July 2026. The Board also appointed Mr. Tajudeen Omoshola Shobayo, FCA, an existing Non-Executive Director, as Vice Chairman to replace the retired Vice Chairman."
Wolemi Esan Brings Extensive Legal and Governance Expertise
Esan is one of Nigeria's leading commercial lawyers with over 20 years of experience in corporate law, arbitration, capital markets, mergers and acquisitions, infrastructure projects, and corporate governance. A Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), he has advised multinational corporations, financial institutions, and government agencies on complex commercial transactions and disputes. His portfolio includes landmark transportation and infrastructure projects, particularly in rail, airport, and port concession sectors. Esan is widely recognised by international legal ranking organisations including Chambers Global, IFLR1000, and Legal 500. His academic qualifications include a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B) from Lagos State University, a Master of Laws (LL.M) from University College London, and an MBA from Durham University.
FirstBank Executive Dr Julius B. Omodayo-Owotuga Joins Board
Dr Julius B. Omodayo-Owotuga brings decades of experience in banking, infrastructure finance, energy, corporate transformation, and governance. He currently serves as Executive Director at First Bank of Nigeria Limited and has held several senior leadership positions across the banking and energy sectors. His appointment is expected to strengthen NAHCO's strategic oversight as the company continues to expand its operations and improve corporate governance.
NAHCO's Commitment to Strong Leadership and Growth
The latest board changes underscore NAHCO's commitment to maintaining a strong leadership team capable of driving sustainable growth while leveraging deep expertise across key sectors of the Nigerian economy. The company's strategic focus includes expanding its operations and enhancing corporate governance standards. These appointments follow President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's recent appointment of Mrs Arinola Ogbara-Banjoko as a Non-Executive Director on the board of the Nigeria Commodity Exchange, a move aimed at enhancing commodity trading and market access for farmers and investors.
