Bola Oyebamiji biography, career achievements, net worth, appointments

Bola Oyebamiji is a Nigerian banker, politician, and public administrator who has built a distinguished career in both the financial and political sectors.

He is the current Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), a position he assumed under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Over the years, Oyebamiji has demonstrated competence, versatility, and dedication to service, rising from the private banking industry to become a key figure in public administration.

Profile summary

Name: Bola Oyebamiji

Born: 17th November, 1965

State of origin: Osun

Education: Ibadan Polytechnic

Relationship status: Married

Career: Banker, Politician

Background

Bola Oyebamiji was born in Ikire,  Irewole Local Government Area of Osun State, Nigeria on 17th of November, 1965.

His early education began at A.D.C Primary School, Oke-Ada, Ikire, between 1971 and 1977.

He proceeded to Ayedaade Grammar School, Ikire, where he completed his secondary education in 1982.

Determined to pursue a career in finance, he enrolled at The Polytechnic, Ibadan, Oyo State, where he obtained both an Ordinary National Diploma (OND) and a Higher National Diploma (HND) in Banking and Finance.

He later became a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria, a recognition that marked him as a seasoned professional in the industry.

His thirst for knowledge led him to further studies. In 1997, he earned a Master’s degree in Public Administration (MPA) from Lagos State University (LASU).

Later, in 2004, he obtained a Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Ado-Ekiti (now Ekiti State University), equipping him with broader expertise in management, leadership, and policy-making.

Career in Banking

Oyebamiji began his career in 1987 at Wema Bank Plc, where he worked in the International Banking Division as an Assistant Manager.

His professionalism and competence saw him climb the corporate ladder, and by 1998, he had joined Trans International Bank Plc in Ikeja, Lagos.

Within a few years, he rose to become Head of Lagos Region with the rank of Principal Manager in 2003.

In 2005, he moved to Spring Bank Plc (Corporate Branch), Lagos, as Head of Business Development, where he played a strategic role in expanding the bank’s corporate portfolio.

By 2009, he transitioned to Enterprise Bank Ltd, Lagos, where he became Head of Retail Business, further deepening his experience in commercial and retail banking.

Career in Public Service

In 2012, after over two decades in banking, Oyebamiji shifted into public service.

He was appointed Managing Director/CEO of Osun State Investment Company Limited (OSICOL), later renamed Omoluabi Holdings Limited, by the administration of Governor Rauf Aregbesola.

His leadership contributed to strengthening state-owned investments and improving revenue generation.

Appointments

Recognizing his competence, he was later appointed as Commissioner for Finance in Osun State, a position he held across two administrations, that of Rauf Aregbesola and later Gboyega Oyetola.

As Commissioner, he oversaw fiscal policies, budgeting, and financial management during a critical period in the state’s development.

In 2018, Oyebamiji contested as a governorship aspirant under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), although he eventually withdrew from the race.

He later continued his service under Oyetola’s government, once again as Commissioner for Finance, consolidating his role as a trusted technocrat in public financial management.

By 2023, he was appointed Special Adviser to Gboyega Oyetola, the pioneer Minister of Marine and Blue Economy.

His advisory role in this newly established ministry positioned him as an influential figure in Nigeria’s efforts to diversify and modernize its economy through maritime resources.

In 2024, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu appointed him as the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), placing him at the forefront of Nigeria’s inland waterways development and marine economy expansion.

Personal life

Bola Oyebamiji is married to Sekinah Bola-Oyebamiji, and together they have children.

Despite his busy public service career, he is known for his family values and commitment to community development.

Awards

Throughout his academic journey and banking career, Bola Oyebamiji received numerous prestigious awards that highlighted his excellence and professionalism.

While studying at The Polytechnic, Ibadan, he was honoured as the Best Student in Banking Law in the Department of Finance.

During his Master’s in Public Administration (MPA) program at Lagos State University, he earned the Dr. C.S. Ola Award for being the Best Student in Management.

In November 1992, the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria bestowed on him the Gold Medalist Award in Practice of Banking II.

His banking career was equally decorated with recognitions. He was named Trans International Bank’s Most Profitable Manager of the Year in 2002 and also received the Central Bank of Nigeria’s Award for Star Performer in Credit Documentary and Collection in 1991.

Net worth

With an extensive career in banking, corporate leadership, and public administration, Bola Oyebamiji has built significant wealth over the decades.

His earnings come from his years in senior banking positions, his tenure as Managing Director of Omoluabi Holdings Limited, his service as Commissioner for Finance, and his current position as NIWA CEO.

His net worth is currently estimated to be about $3 million and $5 million, reflecting his combined assets, investments, and professional earnings.