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Our Board & Management

The People Behind The Midas Touch

First Royal Microfinance Bank is governed by an independent-minded Board of Directors and led day to day by an experienced Management Team. Together they set the Bank's strategic direction, safeguard its governance and risk standards, and run the operations that serve customers across every branch.

Board of Directors

The Chairman and Non-Executive Directors set strategy and provide independent oversight. The Managing Director/CEO and Company Secretary also serve the Board — see their full profiles in the Management Team section below.

Portrait of Princess Ibum Obu

Princess Ibum Obu

Chairman, Board of Directors

Princess Ibum Obu is the Chairman of the Board of Directors of First Royal Microfinance Bank Limited. She is a seasoned project management and business strategy professional with extensive experience in project delivery, business analysis and operational leadership across the power, construction, technology, supply chain and healthcare sectors. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Kinesiology from California State University, Fullerton, USA, and is a SAFe® Certified Scrum Master (SSM) and Certified Scrum Product Owner (CSPO), reflecting her expertise in internationally recognised Agile project management frameworks. She is also a Registered Professional of the Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria (FRCN). As Chairman of the Board, Ms. Obu provides strategic leadership and oversight, championing sound corporate governance, innovation and sustainable growth while guiding the Bank in the achievement of its long-term strategic objectives.

Portrait of His Grace, Archbishop Amadike Uche Christian, Esq.

His Grace, Archbishop Amadike Uche Christian, Esq.

Non-Executive Director — Chairman, Board Governance, Remuneration, Nominations and Steering Committee

A seasoned Legal Practitioner with over thirty-four (34) years of post-call experience in legal practice, corporate advisory and dispute resolution, and a distinguished member of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA). Archbishop Amadike brings extensive legal expertise, sound judgment and a wealth of leadership experience to the Board. His commitment to corporate governance, ethical leadership and regulatory compliance has been instrumental in strengthening the Bank's governance framework and strategic oversight. In addition to his legal career, he is a respected cleric whose leadership and integrity have earned him wide recognition in both ecclesiastical and professional circles.

Portrait of Dr. Nnasia Ndarake Asanga, Ph.D., FCA, ACTI, FCAI

Dr. Nnasia Ndarake Asanga, Ph.D., FCA, ACTI, FCAI

Independent Non-Executive Director — Chairman, Board Audit and Risk Management Committee

A distinguished finance and accounting professional with over three decades of executive leadership experience spanning finance, auditing, taxation, corporate administration and strategic management. He holds a B.Sc. in Accounting, an M.Sc. in Banking and Finance, and a Ph.D. in Agricultural Economics, and is a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) and the Institute of Corporate Administration of Nigeria (FCAI), an Associate of the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN), and a Member of the Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria (FRCN). As Chairman of the Board Audit and Risk Management Committee, he provides strategic oversight of the Bank's financial reporting, internal control systems, risk management framework and regulatory compliance.

Portrait of Mr. Usen G. Etim

Mr. Usen G. Etim

Non-Executive Director — Chairman, Board Credit Committee

A highly accomplished technology and cybersecurity professional with over thirteen (13) years of experience in information technology, cybersecurity architecture, security information and event management (SIEM), digital transformation and enterprise risk management. A Certified Splunk Security Architect with certifications including AWS Solutions Architect, Microsoft Azure Fundamentals and CompTIA Security+, and a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN). As Chairman of the Board Credit Committee, he provides strategic oversight of the Bank's credit administration framework, lending policies and portfolio quality.

Portrait of Mmama Nyime Obele

Mmama Nyime Obele

Non-Executive Director — Chairman, Board Information and Communications Technology Steering Committee

An accomplished entrepreneur and business executive with over three decades of experience in contracting, procurement, construction, logistics, real estate development and international trade. As Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Mmatee International Services and Mmatee Integrated Services Limited, she has led diverse projects for leading public and private sector organisations across Nigeria, including leadership roles within the contracting industry. Mmama Obele brings extensive entrepreneurial insight, commercial acumen and strategic leadership to the Board, providing oversight of the Bank's technology strategy, digital transformation initiatives and innovation agenda.

Portrait of Professor David Irefin, Ph.D., FCINE, FIPM

Professor David Irefin, Ph.D., FCINE, FIPM

Non-Executive Director

A distinguished economist, academic and development policy expert with over four decades of experience in economic research, public policy, consultancy and higher education. He holds a First Class Honours degree in Economics and postgraduate degrees from Washington State University, Pullman, USA, and is a Fellow of the Certified Institute of Nigerian Economists (FCINE) and the Institute of Policy Management (FIPM). He has consulted for the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and U.S. Department of Defense-funded projects, and brings exceptional expertise in economic policy, strategic planning and corporate governance to the Board.

Management Team

The Managing Director/CEO and departmental heads run the Bank's day-to-day operations. Tap a name to see their full responsibilities, background, and career progression.

Appointed: 1 January 2026 Experience: 18+ years Email: md@firstroyalmfb.com

An accomplished banking and business executive with over two decades of professional experience spanning banking operations, internal audit, strategic management, customer experience, project management and business development. Prior to his current appointment, he served as the Bank's Head of Customer Experience and Strategic Initiatives / Acting Head of Operations, where he played a pivotal role in enhancing operational efficiency and driving customer-centric initiatives.

Key Responsibilities
  • Provides strategic leadership and overall direction for the Bank in alignment with board policies, regulatory guidelines, and institutional goals.
  • Oversees all banking operations, ensuring operational efficiency, regulatory compliance, financial sustainability, and risk management.
  • Represents the Bank in engagements with regulators (e.g., CBN, NDIC), stakeholders, and external partners, while ensuring timely reporting and governance compliance.
Educational Background
  • Postgraduate Diploma (Distinction) in Nutrition and Food Science – University of Calabar
  • Higher National Diploma (Distinction) in Food Technology – Yaba College of Technology
  • National Diploma (Distinction) in Food Technology – Yaba College of Technology
Certifications
  • Microfinance Certified Banker (MCB)
  • Fundamentals of Risk Management (UNITAR)
  • AI Mastery Certifications
Professional Memberships
  • Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN)
  • Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA), UK
Career Progression

Brings over 15 years of experience from the commercial banking sector. Joined the Bank as Head of Customer Experience and Strategic Initiatives, progressed to Head of Operations, before his current appointment as Managing Director/CEO.

Appointed: 6 December 2018 Experience: 18+ years Email: hiac@firstroyalmfb.com
Key Responsibilities
  • Oversees independent reviews of the Bank's financial, operational, and compliance processes to ensure adherence to internal policies and regulatory requirements.
  • Identifies control weaknesses, operational risks, and policy breaches, and recommends corrective actions to enhance accountability and efficiency.
  • Reports audit findings to Management and the Board, and monitors the implementation of approved audit recommendations.
Educational Background
  • B.Sc. in Public Administration – University of Calabar
  • Intermediate Certificate in Banking and Finance
Certifications
  • Microfinance Certified Banker (MCB)
  • New Product Development, Assets Acquisition (IPPIS) and Techniques on Market Penetration
  • AI Mastery Certifications
Professional Memberships
  • Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN)
  • Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria (FRN)
  • Chartered Institute of Public Diplomacy and Management (SMIPDM)
  • Chartered Institute of Administration (ACIA)
  • Chartered Management Institute (ACMI)
  • National Association of Microfinance Banks (NAMB)
Career Progression

Has held several key positions at First Royal Microfinance Bank, including Head of Operations, Coordinator of Marketing and Business Development, Chairman of strategic committees, and Acting Managing Director from 2016 to 2018, prior to her current role.

Appointed: 3 May 2022 Experience: 14+ years Email: hops@firstroyalmfb.com
Key Responsibilities
  • Oversees daily banking operations across all branches, ensuring efficiency, compliance, and adherence to internal control procedures.
  • Manages transaction processing, cash operations, and customer service delivery in line with regulatory standards and service-level expectations.
  • Coordinates operational policy implementation, system upgrades, and supports audit readiness and risk mitigation across the Bank's operational functions.
Educational Background
  • B.Sc. in Accounting – University of Calabar
  • OND in Financial Studies – AKS Polytechnic
Certifications
  • Microfinance Certified Banker (MCB)
  • New Product Development, Assets Acquisition (IPPIS) and Techniques on Market Penetration
Professional Memberships
  • Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN)
  • Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria (FRN)
Career Progression

Progressed through Customer Service, Internal Audit and Compliance, Administration, Credit, and Risk, and served as Paying Teller, Secretary, Finance Officer, and Branch Manager (Akamkpa Branch), before his current appointment as Head of Finance.

Appointed: 21 March 2025 Experience: 22+ years Email: hof@firstroyalmfb.com
Key Responsibilities
  • Oversees the Bank's financial planning, reporting, and budgeting processes to ensure accuracy, transparency, and compliance with regulatory standards.
  • Manages liquidity, treasury operations, and general ledger functions to support sound financial management and sustainability.
  • Prepares statutory financial reports and coordinates audits in line with CBN, NDIC, and other regulatory requirements.
Educational Background
  • H.N.D in Business Administration – The Polytechnic, Calabar
  • PGD in Management – University of Calabar
Certifications
  • Microfinance Certified Banker (MCB)
  • New Product Development, Assets Acquisition (IPPIS) and Techniques on Market Penetration
  • Comprehensive Microfinance Banking
  • AI Mastery Certifications
Professional Memberships
  • Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN)
  • Microfinance Certified Practitioner (MCP)
  • Chartered Institute of Public Diplomacy and Management (CIPDM)
Career Progression

Began her banking career at First Royal Microfinance Bank as a Supervisor and has held several key positions including Head of ICT, Head of Internal Audit/Compliance, Acting MD/CEO, and Head of Operations before her current role as Head of Credit.

Appointed: 19 May 2021 Experience: 20+ years Email: hict@firstroyalmfb.com
Key Responsibilities
  • Oversees the Bank's ICT infrastructure, including system administration, network security, core banking software, and digital platforms.
  • Ensures the availability, reliability, and security of IT systems to support banking operations and regulatory compliance.
  • Leads ICT strategy development, implementation of technology upgrades, and alignment of IT solutions with business goals.
Educational Background
  • PGD in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning – University of Texas, Austin, USA
  • B.Sc. in Public Administration – National Open University, Nigeria
  • M.Sc. in Computer and Network Security – Middlesex University Hendon, London
  • B.Sc. in Information Technology and Business Information Systems – Middlesex University Hendon, London
  • Advanced Diploma in Software Engineering – APTECH Education, Calabar
Certifications
  • Microfinance Certified Banker (MCB)
  • Innovation and Information Technology Management
  • Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist (MCTS)
  • Microsoft Certified IT Professional (MCIP)
  • Microsoft Certified Professional (MCP)
  • Financial Modelling and Valuation Analyst (FMVA)
  • Certified in Cyber Security
Professional Memberships
  • Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN)
Career Progression

Joined First Royal Microfinance Bank as Head of ICT and currently serves in that capacity, and has also been appointed Chief Information Security Officer.

Appointed: 23 December 2025 Experience: 10+ years Email: hass@firstroyalmfb.com
Key Responsibilities
  • Oversees the Bank's administrative and human resource functions, including facilities management, procurement, logistics, staff welfare, and recruitment.
  • Ensures compliance with internal policies and regulatory standards while promoting a productive and secure work environment.
  • Manages support staff performance, handles HR policy implementation, and provides strategic support for non-core banking operations.
Educational Background
  • B.Sc. in Policy Studies and Administration – University of Calabar
Certifications
  • Microfinance Certified Banker (MCB)
  • New Product Development, Assets Acquisition (IPPIS) and Techniques on Market Penetration
Professional Memberships
  • Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN)
Career Progression

Began her banking career as a Business Development Officer II, progressed to Receiving Teller and Supervisor, Branch Manager (8 Miles Branch), Risk Officer, and Unit Head of the Funds Transfer Unit, before her current appointment as Head of Operations.

Appointed: 20 February 2024 Experience: 6+ years Email: hoc@firstroyalmfb.com
Key Responsibilities
  • Oversees the credit portfolio of the Bank, ensuring sound credit appraisal, approval, and monitoring in line with regulatory guidelines.
  • Develops and enforces credit policies, risk assessment frameworks, and loan recovery strategies to maintain portfolio quality.
  • Coordinates credit operations across branches and ensures compliance with internal controls, CBN regulations, and risk mitigation standards.
Educational Background
  • B.Sc. in Statistics – University of Calabar
Certifications
  • Microfinance Certified Banker (MCB) (in view)
  • New Product Development, Assets Acquisition (IPPIS) and Techniques on Market Penetration
Professional Memberships
  • Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN) (in view)
Career Progression

Began her banking career as a Business Development Officer II and progressed through Supervisor, Financial Officer, and Marketer, before her current appointment as Head of Marketing.

Appointed: 10 February 2021 Experience: 10+ years Email: hom@firstroyalmfb.com
Key Responsibilities
  • Develops and executes marketing strategies to drive customer acquisition, brand awareness, and product penetration across target markets.
  • Oversees the design and promotion of financial products tailored to customer needs, in alignment with the Bank's strategic objectives.
  • Leads market research, campaign management, and partnership initiatives to enhance the Bank's visibility and competitive positioning.
Educational Background
  • B.Sc. in Public Administration – University of Calabar
Certifications
  • Microfinance Certified Banker (MCB)
  • New Product Development, Assets Acquisition (IPPIS) and Techniques on Market Penetration
  • Risk-based Auditing, Compliance and Supervision
  • AI Mastery Certifications
Professional Memberships
  • Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN)
  • Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria (FRN)
  • Chartered Institute of Public Diplomacy and Management (CIPDM)
Career Progression

Began his banking career at First Royal Microfinance Bank as a Business Development Officer II and progressed through Head of Credit, Head of Marketing, Head of ICT, Assistant Internal Auditor, and Risk Officer, before his current position as Head of Recovery.

Appointed: 2 September 2020 Experience: 10+ years Email: hor@firstroyalmfb.com
Key Responsibilities
  • Oversees loan recovery activities across all portfolios, ensuring timely and effective resolution of delinquent accounts.
  • Develops and implements recovery strategies in compliance with regulatory guidelines and internal policies.
  • Coordinates with legal, credit, and field teams to manage non-performing loans (NPLs) and maximise asset recovery.
Educational Background
  • B.Sc. in Marine Biology – University of Calabar
Certifications
  • Microfinance Certified Banker (MCB)
  • New Product Development, Assets Acquisition (IPPIS) and Techniques on Market Penetration
  • AI Mastery Certifications
Professional Memberships
  • Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN)
Career Progression

Began his banking career as a Business Development Officer II, progressed to Paying Teller and Supervisor, before his appointment as Head of Administration and Support Services.

Appointed: 22 April 2026 Experience: 5+ years Email: coysec@firstroyalmfb.com

A Barrister and Solicitor of the Supreme Court of Nigeria and a member of the Nigerian Bar Association, providing strategic legal, corporate governance and regulatory advisory support to the Board of Directors and Management. He is AI-proficient, leveraging emerging technologies to enhance legal research, contract drafting, regulatory analysis and corporate governance.

Key Responsibilities
  • Ensures compliance with corporate governance principles, statutory regulations, and regulatory filings in line with CBN, NDIC, and CAC requirements.
  • Provides legal and administrative support to the Board and Management, including preparing and maintaining statutory records.
  • Serves as liaison between the Board, regulators, shareholders, and other stakeholders to uphold transparency and legal integrity within the Bank's operations.
Educational Background
  • Certificate of Call to Bar – Body of Benchers, Nigeria
  • LL.B in Law – University of Calabar
  • Diploma in Law – University of Calabar
Certifications
  • Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR)
  • Compliance and Risk Management
  • Gender Justice, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
  • Protection of Vulnerable Populations
Professional Memberships
  • Nigerian Bar Association (NBA)
Career Progression

Joined First Royal Microfinance Bank as Company Secretary/Legal Officer and has continued to serve in that capacity to date.

The Management Team reports to the Managing Director/CEO, who in turn reports to the Board of Directors. The Board's Audit & Risk, Credit, Governance, and ICT Steering Committees provide independent oversight of the Bank's operations, in line with CBN and NDIC regulatory requirements.

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