VFD Group Plc, a leading investment company in Nigeria, has strengthened its executive leadership structure with the appointment of Ijeoma Emezie-Ezigbo as its Deputy Managing Director, effective October 5, 2026. This strategic move is aimed at building a resilient organisation positioned for sustainable growth. Emezie-Ezigbo brings over two decades of experience in corporate finance, transaction advisory, mergers and acquisitions, business valuation, and strategic financial management across Nigeria, Canada, and other African markets.
Emezie-Ezigbo joins VFD Group from KPMG Nigeria, where she served as Partner and Head of Transaction Services, West Africa. Her career also includes senior roles at Stanbic IBTC Group, IBM Canada, and Canadian Tire Corporation. Her extensive experience in transaction advisory, corporate finance, and strategic management is expected to bring valuable depth to VFD Group's executive leadership. The company aims to build an organisation whose strength extends beyond any individual, supported by strong systems, capable leadership, and a clear institutional direction.
Commenting on the appointment, VFD Group's Managing Director, Nonso Okpala, said that the creation of the Deputy Managing Director role reflects the company's commitment to building a strong institution with governance depth, leadership capacity, and succession structures required for long-term sustainability. Okpala expressed his confidence in Emezie-Ezigbo's ability to contribute to the company's growth and development. The appointment is part of VFD Group's broader commitment to institutionalisation, with a focus on strengthening governance and developing leadership capacity.
Emezie-Ezigbo holds a First-Class Honours degree in Business Administration, specialising in Marketing, from the University of Nigeria. She also holds a Master of Finance degree from Cass Business School, London, and has completed the Advanced Management Programme at Lagos Business School. Her professional qualifications include Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria, Associate Chartered Certified Accountant, Chartered Professional Accountant in Ontario, Canada, and Certified Valuation Analyst.
On her appointment, Emezie-Ezigbo expressed her pleasure in joining VFD Group at this important stage in its institutional journey. She looks forward to contributing her experience in corporate finance, transactions, and strategic management to strengthening governance, supporting sound decision-making, and creating sustainable long-term value across the Group. Emezie-Ezigbo joins the Group's executive leadership alongside Group Managing Director Nonso Okpala and Executive Directors Folajimi Adeleye and Morenike Ominike.
The Board of VFD Group is chaired by Olatunde Busari (SAN). The company's leadership structure is designed to ensure sustainable growth and development. With Emezie-Ezigbo's appointment, VFD Group is poised to continue its growth trajectory, driven by a strong and capable leadership team. The company has been making significant strides in recent years, including doubling its profit to N10bn on investment gains.
The appointment of Ijeoma Emezie-Ezigbo as Deputy Managing Director is a significant milestone for VFD Group, reflecting its commitment to institutionalisation and long-term sustainability. With her extensive experience and qualifications, Emezie-Ezigbo is well-positioned to contribute to the company's growth and development. The company's focus on strengthening governance and developing leadership capacity is expected to drive sustainable growth and create long-term value for its stakeholders.
Key points
- VFD Group Plc has appointed Ijeoma Emezie-Ezigbo as its Deputy Managing Director, effective October 5, 2026.
- Emezie-Ezigbo brings over two decades of experience in corporate finance, transaction advisory, mergers and acquisitions, business valuation, and strategic financial management.
- The appointment is part of VFD Group's broader commitment to institutionalisation, with a focus on strengthening governance and developing leadership capacity.
