By: Amadi Vincent Uzoma
Unilever Nigeria Plc has publicized the naming of Mr. Bolaji Balogun as the new Independent Non-Executive Director and Chairman of the Board, effective immediately from the 16th of May 2024. Additionally, Ms. Ngozi Edozien has been appointed as an Independent Non-Executive Director.
Mr. Balogun, the Founder and CEO of Chapel Hill Denham and Chief Investment Officer of the Nigeria Infrastructure Debt Fund, brings with him over 35 years of expertise in investment banking, investment management, and mobile telecommunications. Chapel Hill Denham, established by him in April 2005, is Nigeria’s foremost investment bank, leading alternatives investment manager, and impact investment firm concentrating on sectors beneficial to Nigeria and Africa’s sustainable development across various funds.
Before his current role, Mr. Balogun held significant positions at FCMB Group and Econet Wireless Nigeria, which is now Airtel Nigeria. His remarkable achievements include leading the fundraising and license bid auction for Econet Wireless Nigeria’s USD285 million GSM license. Following the sale of Econet Wireless to Celtel in 2005, he shifted back to financial services by establishing Chapel Hill. He boasts an impressive track record with roles at FCMB Capital Markets and CSL Stockbrokers Limited.
Mr. Balogun actively contributes to the United Nations Global Compact and serves as Co-Chair of the Private Sector Advisory Group on the SDGs. He holds leadership positions in various organizations including Endeavor Nigeria and Trustfund Pensions. Notable board memberships include Lafarge Africa Plc, Nahco FTZ Limited, Nahco Aviance Plc, and NASD OTC Plc. Mr. Balogun is an alumnus of the London School of Economics and Charterhouse, Godalming, Surrey, United Kingdom, along with Igbobi College, Lagos, Nigeria.
Unilever Nigeria Plc has introduced Mr. Bolaji Balogun as the new Independent Non-Executive Director and Chairman of the Board, alongside Ms. Ngozi Edozien as the Independent Non-Executive Director. These appointments became effective on the 16th of May 2024.
As for Ms. Edozien, she brings over 35 years of global leadership experience in Management Consulting, private equity, finance, sustainability, and strategic planning. She has held various leadership roles in multinational companies across Europe, the USA, and Africa.
Tim Kleinebenne, Managing Director of Unilever Nigeria, expressed satisfaction in reinforcing the board with these highly experienced professionals, anticipating their contributions to the company’s growth following impressive results in 2023. The Board’s diverse composition of Independent non-executive directors aligns with Unilever’s core values.
Mr. Balogun shared his honor in joining Unilever’s Board, emphasizing the company’s historical significance and impact on Nigeria’s development. He looks forward to collaborating with the Board, Management, and Staff to enhance Unilever’s legacy and value for stakeholders.
The management team extends its congratulations to Mr. Balogun and Ms. Edozien on their appointments, wishing them success in their new roles.
