Nigeria’s energy commodities exchange, JEX Markets Limited, has announced the selection of Dr. Blessing Ayemhere as its next Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer (MD/CEO), pending formal approval by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). This strategic appointment marks a pivotal step as the exchange gears up to launch full operations and solidify its role in Nigeria’s evolving energy market.
The transition is expected to take effect on January 3, 2026, once regulatory clearance is secured. In its statement, JEX Markets said the new MD/CEO will provide strategic leadership as the company advances plans to build “a transparent, liquid, and globally competitive marketplace for natural gas and other energy-related products in Nigeria.”
Dr. Ayemhere will play a central role in coordinating efforts among the Board of Directors, regulators, market participants, and critical infrastructure partners as the exchange prepares to launch trading operations. His responsibilities include deepening market liquidity, enhancing market integrity, and promoting innovation across the JEX ecosystem.
In announcing the appointment, JEX Markets’ Chairman Mr. Oscar Onyema (OON) explained that Dr. Ayemhere was selected after a rigorous process facilitated by Global Career Company, reflecting the company’s focus on strong leadership at a critical growth phase. Mr. Onyema said Dr. Ayemhere’s proficiency and leadership experience would reinforce the company’s capacity to fulfil its mandate of building “a world-class, transparent, and efficient energy marketplace that supports Nigeria’s energy transition and industrial growth.”
Dr. Ayemhere brings to the role extensive executive experience across the energy sector, market infrastructure development, finance, and corporate leadership, having served in senior positions at prominent energy and infrastructure firms before his new appointment.
Accepting the new role, Dr. Ayemhere expressed gratitude to the Board, acknowledging the trust placed in him. He said he looks forward to leading JEX Markets through this transformative period, focusing on building a capable team, strengthening market infrastructure, and designing innovative products that will deliver long-term value to both market participants and the Nigerian economy.
About JEX Markets:
JEX Markets Limited is a licensed Nigerian energy commodities exchange and market infrastructure entity, focused on establishing an efficient, transparent market for natural gas and related products. As Nigeria’s first platform of its kind, JEX Markets aims to facilitate transparent trading and price discovery, promoting investor participation and integration into global market standards.
This appointment reflects broader national efforts to modernise commodity markets and stimulate greater private-sector-led growth, aligning with regulatory initiatives that have expanded market participation and strengthened governance in key economic sectors.
