CRC Credit Bureau Appoints Patrick Akhidenor as Non-Executive Director

CRC Credit Bureau Limited has announced the appointment of Mr. Patrick Ehidiame Akhidenor as a Non-Executive Director (NED) on its Board, following approval from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

Mr. Akhidenor joins the board as the representative of First Bank of Nigeria Limited, succeeding Mr. Olusegun Alebiosu, who was recently appointed Group Managing Director of First Bank. He brings over 30 years of extensive experience in banking and financial services, with expertise in credit and risk management, corporate finance, operations, and strategic leadership.

Currently serving as Chief Risk Officer (CRO) at First Bank of Nigeria Limited since July 2024, Mr. Akhidenor has played a pivotal role in strengthening the bank’s credit and enterprise risk frameworks while driving strategic initiatives across multiple markets. His prior roles include Head of Credit Analysis and Processing at First Bank, Chief Risk Officer in 2016, and various strategic positions at Savannah Bank, Ecobank Nigeria, Standard Chartered Bank, Fidelity Bank, and Citizens International Bank.

A trained lawyer and communications professional, Mr. Akhidenor holds a Barrister-at-Law (BL) from the Nigerian Law School, an LL.B from Lagos State University, and a B.A. (Hons) in English from Bendel State University (now Ambrose Alli University). Beyond his professional work, he is a dedicated trainer, climate and sustainability advocate, and mentor committed to community development.

Commenting on the appointment, CRC Board Chairman, Mr. Joel Owoade, said, We are delighted to welcome Mr. Patrick Akhidenor to CRC’s Board. His deep expertise in credit, risk management, and governance will further strengthen our strategic focus as we promote responsible lending, financial inclusion, and data-driven credit infrastructure across Nigeria and Africa.

Dr. Tunde Popoola, MD/CEO of CRC Credit Bureau, added, “Bringing Mr. Akhidenor on board reflects CRC’s commitment to strong corporate governance and innovation. His experience will accelerate our mission to remain Africa’s leading credit bureau, driving financial inclusion and advancing credit reporting excellence.”

With this appointment, CRC Credit Bureau reinforces its leadership in credit reporting, data analytics, and financial inclusion, while enhancing its governance and strategic capacity to deliver impactful solutions across Nigeria and the continent.