Professor Benedict Oramah, President of the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank), has been honored with one of Nigeria’s highest recognitions, the Grand Commander of the Order of Niger (GCON).

Nigerian President Bola Tinubu presented him with the award during the 32nd Annual Afreximbank Meetings, which are currently taking place in Abuja and will conclude on Saturday.

Under Oramah’s leadership, Afreximbank has established itself as a crucial institution for addressing Africa’s economic challenges. It has become the primary source for medium, to long-term financing for the continent’s private sector and essential industries.

President Tinubu praised Oramah’s innovative and impactful leadership, highlighting how it has transformed Afreximbank into a cornerstone of African development.

He noted that under Oramah’s tenure, the bank’s assets surged from $5 billion to over $43 billion in a relatively short period.
“I am honored to recognize the exceptional contributions of Professor Benedict Oramah by bestowing upon him one of Nigeria’s highest honors, the Grand Commander of the Order of Niger,” President Tinubu declared.

Oramah’s achievements include establishing the East and West Africa regional trade centers in Nigeria and the innovative Afreximbank African Trade Centre (AATC).

In the past decade, Afreximbank has significantly aided Nigeria, providing around $52 billion in trade and development financing, making it the largest beneficiary of the bank’s services on the continent.