WEMA Bank CEO Donates One-Day Salary to Young Winner of Children’s Day MD/CEO Initiative

WEMA Bank CEO Donates One-Day Salary to Young Winner of Children’s Day MD/CEO Initiative

In a heartwarming celebration of leadership and innovation, Wema Bank's Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Moruf Oseni, has donated his one-day salary to 12-year-old Chiderije Mbah, winner of the Bank’s 2025 Children’s Day “1-Day MD/CEO” initiative.

The commendable gesture took place on May 27, in honour of Children’s Day, and formed the highlight of a memorable day for the young achiever, who earned the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to serve as Wema Bank’s MD/CEO for a day.

Launched on May 21, 2025, the Wema Bank “1-Day MD/CEO” initiative invited children across Nigeria to submit short video entries showcasing their leadership potential and career aspirations within the banking industry. Chiderije’s entry stood out for its creativity, clarity of vision, and confidence, earning him the top spot among dozens of submissions nationwide.

The initiative was part of Wema Bank’s broader commitment to youth empowerment and financial literacy. Chiderije was officially welcomed at the Bank’s Head Office in Lagos, where he met with top executives and participated in a series of leadership engagements designed to give him firsthand experience in managing a leading financial institution.

To crown the day’s events, Mr. Oseni made a surprise announcement by donating his one-day salary to the young CEO in recognition of his effort and potential.

“As a bank committed to empowering lives through innovation, we see it as our responsibility to begin nurturing the leaders of tomorrow today,” Mr. Oseni said while handing over the official symbols of office. “Children’s Day is particularly special to us because every successful adult and institution began as a child. Our investment in children reflects our long-standing philosophy, captured in our creed, ‘With You, All The Way.’”

He added: “Wema Bank has always sought creative ways to lead with impact. Today, we’re not only giving children a voice—we’re giving them a platform to lead. Chiderije has earned this role, and as such, he deserves to be rewarded accordingly. That’s the Wema way—work hard, reward hard.”

The young CEO, visibly excited and grateful, expressed his appreciation to the bank and Mr. Oseni.

“Thank you very much, Sir, for trusting me with this great opportunity,” Chiderije said. “I’m proud to be part of the Wema Bank family—a bank that supports both parents and children. Today has shown me that the sky is just the beginning for every child. I look forward to learning more about leadership and how to make a difference.”

Since its establishment in 1945, Wema Bank—Nigeria’s oldest indigenous bank and the pioneer of Africa’s first fully digital bank, ALAT—has earned a reputation for innovation and inclusivity. Through initiatives like the Royal Kiddies Account for children aged 0–12 and the ALAT Xplore App for teens aged 13–17, Wema Bank continues to drive financial education and responsibility among young Nigerians.

The public has widely praised the bank’s Children’s Day celebration, describing it as a bold and inspiring example of corporate social responsibility in action.