By Imisioluwa Afunmiso
Chairman of First HoldCo Plc, Femi Otedola, has declared that his multi-billion-naira investment in the financial services group is a long term strategic bet on the future of Nigeria’s banking industry, insisting that strong corporate governance and disciplined leadership remain the foundation for sustainable growth.
Speaking in his first interview since assuming office as Chairman of First HoldCo, Otedola dismissed suggestions that his growing stake in the company was a speculative play, describing it instead as a long-term commitment to rebuilding one of Nigeria’s oldest and most iconic financial institutions.
The businessman, who has emerged as the largest individual shareholder in First HoldCo after steadily increasing his equity holdings, said he was investing not only his wealth but also his reputation in the company’s future.
According to him, the transformation of First HoldCo is anchored on restoring investor confidence through transparency, prudent risk management, operational efficiency, and value creation for shareholders.
He noted that while the Nigerian economy continues to face macroeconomic challenges, institutions with sound governance structures and visionary leadership will continue to attract capital and deliver sustainable returns.
Otedola said the bank’s recent financial performance and improved market valuation demonstrate that strategic reforms are already yielding results, adding that the institution remains focused on strengthening its capital base and expanding its competitiveness within the financial services industry.
He stressed that his investment philosophy has always centered on identifying companies with strong fundamentals but untapped potential, citing his previous successes in the energy and power sectors as evidence that long-term value creation requires patience, discipline, and bold leadership.
“I don’t make short-term bets. I invest where I see enduring value and where I believe my experience can make a difference,” he said.
Reaffirming his commitment to protecting shareholders’ interests, he pledged to uphold the highest standards of corporate governance while positioning the company to take advantage of emerging opportunities within Nigeria’s evolving banking landscape.
Meanwhile, analysts argue that his confidence in First HoldCo could further boost market sentiment, particularly as investors increasingly prioritize governance standards and institutional stability when making investment decisions.