Lafarge Africa gets new chairman

Co-founder of Aluko & Oyebode, one of the largest integrated law firms in Nigeria, Gbenga Oyebode, has been appointed as the chairman of the Board of Directors of Lafarge Africa.

Oyebode succeeded Mr Adebode Adefioye, who voluntarily retired as Chairman.

A statement filed with the Nigerian Exchange Limited revealed that Adefioye voluntarily stepped down as a member of the Board after the 2024 Annual General Meeting.

Adefioye served as a Board Member for over 11 years, having joined the Board in December 2012. He served as a Non-Executive Director for the first eight years and was appointed Chairman in June 2020.

Oyebode’s tenure as Chairman became effective on April 27th 2024.

Bidding farewell to the members of the Board, Adefioye said, “My tenure on the Board is filled with good memories. The Company has witnessed significant transformation in the last four years and I am happy that this is attributable to the efforts of every member of the Board. I feel fulfilled in retiring as Chairman knowing fully well that I will be leaving the leadership of the Board in good hands. I am grateful for the support of the entire Board and the confidence reposed in me.

Lafarge Africa’s Group Managing Director, Mr. Lolu Alade-Akinyemi, commenting on the change in leadership said, “Mr. Adefioye has been a supportive Board Chairman.

The entire Management team of the Company appreciates his guidance and leadership and wishes him well in his future endeavours. I welcome Mr Gbenga Oyebode MFR and look forward to working closely with him as the Chairman of the Board in delivering the Company’s objectives.’’

Oyebode in his comments said, “I am honoured to be appointed Chairman of this great Company. I appreciate the leadership of Mr. Adebode Adefioye. I am confident that with the support of my colleagues on the Board and Management, and in our drive for excellence and innovation, Lafarge Africa Plc will achieve financial growth for her Shareholders and investors as well as create value for all stakeholders.

“The Company will also be the leading building solutions company in Nigeria creating sustainable positive impact in our society and environment.”

Oyebode, who has over 42 years of experience in legal, corporate governance and business operations, having graduated from the University of Ife (LL.B Honours), and the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia (LL.M), is also the Chairman of Okomu Oil Palm Company Plc, Chairman of Nestle Nigeria Plc and Chairman of CFAO Nigeria.

He was the Chairman of the Board of Access Bank from 2005-2015, a member of the Board of MTN Nigeria Plc from 2001 to 2019 and a Trustee of the Ford Foundation New York.

He was appointed as a member of the Board of Lafarge Africa Plc on April 8th 2020.

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