DBN MD Tony Okpanachi Honoured with NES Fellowship for Transformative Impact on Nigeria’s Development

The Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of the Development Bank of Nigeria (DBN), Tony Okpanachi, has been conferred with the prestigious Fellowship of the Nigerian Economic Society (NES), a recognition that celebrates his remarkable contributions to sustainable economic growth and development.

Since the Society’s establishment in 1957, only 74 individuals have received this honour, placing Okpanachi in a distinguished circle of thought leaders and nation builders. His induction is widely seen as a tribute to his dedication to bridging finance gaps for Nigeria’s micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) the true backbone of the economy.

Reflecting on the recognition, Okpanachi described it as a defining moment in his professional journey. “It is a privilege to be counted among such a select group,” he said. “As a trained economist and a development banker, this honour reaffirms the work we do at DBN in creating access to finance for MSMEs and supporting inclusive, sustainable growth for Nigeria.”

Colleagues and stakeholders hailed the fellowship as a fitting acknowledgement of his leadership in blending theory with practice. Okpanachi’s unique perspective as both an economist and development banker has enabled him to champion practical solutions for inclusive growth, earning him respect within and beyond the financial sector.

Speaking on the theme of this year’s NES conference, Rethinking Africa’s Development, he emphasized the urgent need for policies that foster inclusive progress. “While Africa has often highlighted GDP growth, true sustainability lies in inclusive growth, where everyone is carried along. Nigeria must act decisively to close its gaps in development indicators,” he stated.

Okpanachi reaffirmed DBN’s ongoing mission to expand financial inclusion, stressing that empowering MSMEs is critical to driving long-term national prosperity. “This fellowship is not just an honour, it is a call to deepen our impact on Nigeria’s development journey,” he said.