Wema Bank Marks 80th Anniversary with ‘Timeless Elegance’ Celebration
By Web Tonight
Wema Bank, Nigeria’s oldest indigenous financial institution and pioneer of Africa’s first fully digital bank, ALAT, celebrated its 80th anniversary in grand style on May 2, 2025. Themed “Timeless Elegance”, the celebration at Eko Hotel and Suites in Lagos was a dazzling showcase of the bank’s rich legacy, cultural relevance, and forward-looking vision.
Far beyond a traditional gala, the evening unfolded as an immersive brand experience — expertly blending history, music, innovation, and high-profile stakeholder engagement into a memorable milestone for the bank and Nigeria’s financial sector at large.
Here are ten standout highlights from the historic night:
1. Immersive Visual Storytelling
Guests walked into a breathtakingly curated space that told Wema Bank’s story — from its roots as Agbonmagbe Bank to the modern-day digital innovator. A “hall of fame,” caricatured historical buildings, and a stage design worthy of an international award show transformed the venue into a living museum of the bank’s journey.
2. Youthful Energy from ALAT Stars
Opening performances from Kareem, King Breezy, and Kesty — finalists of the 2023 Sounds of ALAT competition — brought youthful vibrance to the event. Their original songs, paired with a heartfelt birthday tribute featuring Cobhams Asuquo on piano, emphasized Wema’s commitment to youth empowerment and creative development.
3. Soulful National Anthem by Yinka Davies
Veteran performer Yinka Davies captivated the audience with a stirring rendition of the Nigerian national anthem. Her performance lent patriotic gravitas to the evening, echoing the institution’s role as a proudly Nigerian brand.
4. Engaging and Professional Hosting
Hosts Chief Femi Branch and Olive Emodi brought elegance and energy to the proceedings. Their charisma, wit, and stage control ensured a smooth flow throughout the night.
5. ₦8 Million Surprise Giveaway
In a gesture of appreciation, Wema Bank rewarded eight loyal customers with ₦1 million each. Additionally, 80 other customers will receive ₦80,000 as part of a broader celebration campaign. The gesture reinforced the bank’s people-first ethos.
6. Chairman’s Legacy-Focused Welcome
Chairman Dr. Oluwayemi Oluwanishola delivered a thought-provoking speech that paid homage to the bank’s founder, Late Chief Okupe. She reflected on the daring establishment of a Nigerian-owned bank during colonial rule, setting the tone for a celebration anchored in legacy and purpose.
7. Star-Studded Musical Performances
Top Nigerian music icons lit up the stage. Wande Coal delivered a nostalgic medley; 9ice added street flair; Fuji maestro Ayuba got the crowd dancing, and Davido brought his signature energy to close out the night. Spoken word artists Kehinde Adolo and IBQuake also provided powerful, reflective interludes.
8. CEO Moruf Oseni Charts a Bold Future
In his speech, Managing Director/CEO Moruf Oseni spotlighted Wema Bank’s transformation into a digitally driven, customer-centric institution. He also previewed a mini-documentary underscoring the bank’s reinvention and reaffirming its long-term vision.
9. Launch of Commemorative Coffee Table Book
One of the night’s most poignant moments was the unveiling of Wema Bank’s 80th-anniversary coffee table book. Joined by past and present board members and executives, the launch served as both a tribute to institutional memory and a beacon for future generations.
10. High-Level Stakeholder Participation
The event drew a wide array of dignitaries, including Governor Dapo Abiodun (Ogun State), Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa (Ondo State), and Nigeria’s First Lady, represented by Minister of Women Affairs, Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim. Business leaders such as Chief Michael Adeojo and Chief Kessington Adebutu were also in attendance. Celebrities including Deyemi Okanlawon, Kaffy, Stan Nze, and Iyanya added glitz to the guest list.
From its immersive production and heartfelt tributes to strategic messaging and celebratory energy, Wema Bank’s 80th anniversary lived up to its theme of Timeless Elegance. The event wasn’t just a nod to the past — it was a powerful declaration of intent for the future.
As the curtain fell and DJ Sose kicked off the after-party, one message rang clear: Wema Bank isn’t just celebrating 80 years of legacy — it is boldly stepping into its next chapter.
