“Leadership is not just about authority; it is about building trust, creating impact, and leaving institutions stronger than you found them.” These words encapsulate the career of Arunma Oteh, one of Nigeria’s most distinguished financial leaders whose influence extends from national capital markets to global finance. From her early academic accomplishments in Nigeria to her stewardship of major international institutions, Oteh has consistently demonstrated that principled leadership and strategic vision can transform systems, inspire confidence, and drive sustainable economic progress.
Her journey began in Nigeria, where she graduated with a First Class degree in Computer Science from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka. Recognising the need to blend technical skill with strategic management, she pursued an MBA at Harvard Business School, equipping herself with the analytical and leadership tools necessary to navigate complex financial landscapes and lead transformative initiatives.
Oteh’s early career at the African Development Bank (AfDB) provided a foundation for her rise as a formidable financial strategist. In roles including Group Treasurer and Vice President for Corporate Services, she managed complex financial operations and spearheaded institutional reforms that enhanced the Bank’s ability to support development projects across Africa. These experiences honed her expertise in treasury management and governance, and reinforced her conviction that robust institutions are critical drivers of sustainable growth.
Her leadership came to national prominence when she was appointed Director General of Nigeria’s Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) from 2010 to 2015. At a pivotal moment following the global financial crisis, she led comprehensive reforms to restore confidence in Nigeria’s capital markets. Under her stewardship, regulatory frameworks were strengthened, corporate governance standards enforced, and investor trust revitalised. Her tenure is widely recognised as transformative, leaving a legacy of transparency, accountability, and resilience.
Building on this success, Oteh took her expertise to the global stage as Vice President and Treasurer of the World Bank from 2015 to 2018. She oversaw one of the world’s largest and most complex treasury operations, managing billions of dollars in assets and liabilities while modernising treasury practices to ensure the sustainability of global development programmes. Her leadership exemplified operational mastery, strategic foresight, and unwavering integrity.
Beyond her executive roles, Oteh remains a thought leader and mentor. As an Executive in Residence at Saïd Business School, University of Oxford, she contributes to research and dialogue on finance, development, and financial innovation. She also chairs the Royal African Society, advocating for informed engagement on Africa’s global role and inspiring emerging leaders to pursue excellence with integrity.
Oteh’s exceptional contributions have earned numerous accolades, including Nigeria’s Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON), listings among Forbes Africa’s Most Powerful Women, and recognition on the UK Powerlist of influential people of African heritage. More than titles or honours, her enduring legacy lies in her steadfast commitment to principled leadership, institutional reform, and sustainable economic development. Through her work, Arunma Oteh continues to set a global benchmark for excellence, demonstrating how visionary leadership can transform institutions and empower nations.
