At a special tribute session and closing-gong ceremony on the floor of the Nigerian Exchange Limited, stakeholders paid homage to the late Christopher Ogunbanjo, hailing his contributions to the capital market and economy at large.
At the ceremony held on Thursday, the chairman of the NGX Group, Dr Umaru Kwairanga, described the late Ogunbanjo as not only a father but a patriarch, an elder statesman, philanthropist, legal luminary, and a corporate titan.
He said, “Chief Ogunbanjo’s legacy is woven into the very fabric of the Nigerian corporate landscape. On the corridors of the Nigerian Exchange Group, his presence was not just influential but transformative. As a guiding force on the Council of the Nigerian Stock Exchange, he played a pivotal role in shaping the direction of NSE, and his impact reached far beyond the confines of boardrooms.
“It is impossible to discuss Chief Ogunbanjo’s contributions without acknowledging the pivotal role his firm played in the incorporation of NSE. His expertise, foresight, and commitment laid the groundwork for an institution that has become a cornerstone of our nation’s financial architecture. Today, we mourn his physical absence, but we also celebrate the enduring legacy that continues to shape the trajectory of NGX Group.”
He added that Ogunbanjo was known, not only for his corporate acumen but also as one of Nigeria’s most distinguished corporate lawyers.
“His influence extended into this realm, where he championed initiatives that set new standards and positively impacted countless companies. His commitment to legal reforms was about fostering an environment where businesses could thrive and contribute to the broader growth of the private sector.
“As we remember the late Chief, we cannot overlook his philanthropic endeavours. His benevolence reached far and wide, touching the lives of communities that were fortunate enough to benefit from his generosity. Today, as we mourn his passing, let us also celebrate the lives that were uplifted by his compassion and commitment to making a meaningful difference.
“While the void created by Chief Ogunbanjo’s departure is profound, we find solace in knowing that his legacy is long-lasting. The principles he stood for—integrity, excellence, and a commitment to the greater good—remain etched in the annals of our corporate history. His wisdom will continue to guide us, and his achievements will inspire generations unborn,” the NGX Group chairman.
Kwairanga encouraged the gathering to uphold the value that the late icon lived by saying, “In bidding farewell to Chief Ogunbanjo, let us not only remember the man but also the values he held dear, carry forward his torch, upholding the ideals of integrity, resilience, and unwavering commitment to excellence that defined his remarkable life.”
The event was chaired by the former president of the Nigerian Stock Exchange, Goodie Ibru. The president and chairman of Council, Chartered Insitute of Stockbrokers, Mr. Oluwole Adeosun and the chairman, of the Association of Securities Dealing Houses of Nigeria, Mr. Sam Onukwue, were among the dignitaries present at the event.
Ogunbanjo’s firm handled the incorporation of the Nigerian Stock Exchange before it morphed into the NGX. The late corporate lawyer died in early October aged 99.
