First City Monument Bank (FCMB) has appointed renowned economist Bismarck Rewane as the new Chairman of its Board of Directors following approval from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).
The appointment marks a significant step for the bank as it seeks to strengthen its leadership structure, corporate governance, and long-term growth strategy. FCMB said Rewane’s extensive experience and deep understanding of Nigeria’s economic environment will provide valuable guidance as the institution continues to expand its operations.
Rewane is one of Nigeria’s most respected economists and business advisers, with more than four decades of experience in economic research, investment banking, financial advisory services, and strategic management. He currently serves as the Managing Director of Financial Derivatives Company Limited, a leading economic research and consulting firm known for providing insights into Nigeria’s economy and financial markets.
Throughout his career, Rewane has played important roles in both the banking and corporate sectors. He previously held senior leadership positions at International Merchant Bank Nigeria Limited and First National Bank of Chicago, where he gained significant experience in banking operations, financial management, and corporate strategy.
His academic and professional achievements have also earned him recognition within the financial industry. He graduated from the University of Ibadan with a degree in Economics and is a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria. He is also an Associate of the Institute of Chartered Bankers of England and Wales and a Fellow of the Nigerian Economic Society.
Beyond banking, Rewane has served on the boards of several major companies across different sectors of the economy. These include Guinness Nigeria Plc, British American Tobacco, Henkel Nigeria Limited, Top Feeds Nigeria Limited, and Africa Infrastructure Plus Partners. His boardroom experience has exposed him to diverse industries, making him well-positioned to provide strategic direction and oversight.
In addition to his corporate experience, Rewane has contributed to national economic policy discussions. He previously served as a member of the Presidential Steering Committee established to address the challenges created by the global economic crisis. His participation in such initiatives has strengthened his reputation as one of the country’s leading voices on economic and financial matters.
To further develop his leadership skills, Rewane has attended executive management programmes at internationally recognised institutions, including the Oxford International Capital Markets Programme, the Euromoney Institute of Finance, and IMD Lausanne in Switzerland.
Reacting to the appointment, FCMB’s Board of Directors expressed confidence in Rewane’s ability to help steer the bank toward greater success. The board noted that his expertise in macroeconomics, strategic planning, and corporate governance would support the bank’s ambitions while helping create value for customers, investors, and other stakeholders.
According to the board, FCMB’s stronger capital position combined with Rewane’s experience will enhance leadership effectiveness and support the institution’s next phase of growth.
FCMB is a member of FCMB Group Plc, a diversified financial services company with operations spanning commercial banking, consumer finance, investment management, and financial technology solutions. The bank believes Rewane’s appointment will further strengthen its ability to compete and grow within Nigeria’s evolving financial sector.
