By Bilesanmi Abayomi
The President of the Nigerian Senate, His Excellency Senator Godswill Obot Akpabio, has announced the appointment of Senator Mukhail Adetokunbo Abiru, FCA, as the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Banking, Insurance, and Other Financial Institutions for the 10th Senate.
Senator Abiru, representing Lagos East Senatorial District, previously served as the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Industries during the 9th National Assembly.
With a distinguished career in banking and finance, Senator Abiru’s appointment brings his extensive experience and expertise to a critical role within the Senate. His illustrious journey in the financial sector spans over three decades, marked by noteworthy accomplishments and leadership roles at top-tier financial institutions.
Having risen through the ranks, Senator Abiru achieved the position of Executive Director at First Bank of Nigeria. Notably, he served as the pioneer and former Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Polaris Bank Limited. Under his guidance, he successfully spearheaded the revitalization of erstwhile Skye Bank Plc, steering the institution towards a positive trajectory during a challenging period. This strategic move, undertaken as Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, was a pivotal response to a Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN)-initiated takeover, aimed at safeguarding the bank’s stability and the overall health of Nigeria’s financial system.
Senator Abiru’s appointment as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Banking, Insurance, and Other Financial Institutions aligns with his distinguished career path and leadership acumen. His tenure as a bank Chief Executive and his roles within First Bank of Nigeria and Polaris Bank Limited highlight his keen understanding of financial dynamics and astute administrative capabilities.
In addition to Senator Abiru’s appointment, the President of the Senate also named other distinguished Senators as substantive chairpersons of various standing committees at the Senate.
