Dr. Olaitan Martins

Olaitan Adeola Martins is widely recognized as a visionary leader whose strategic insight and dedication have left a lasting mark on Nigeria’s financial services industry. Her career is rooted in a foundation of integrity, inclusivity, and a relentless drive for excellence,

consistently pushing forward innovation and progress within every organization she has served. Olaitan’s leadership is characterized by a unique combination of empathy and decisiveness, motivating teams to achieve exceptional results and fostering sustainable growth throughout her distinguished tenure.

Currently, the Group Executive, Corporate Banking at FirstBank, Olaitan, is celebrated for her blend of strategic vision and operational expertise. Previously, she led the Transaction Banking Division, where she was instrumental in digitizing and automating the Bank’s Trade and Cash management systems. This transformation set new standards for efficiency and fundamentally reshaped the wholesale banking business.

With over 25 years of experience, Olaitan’s career is filled with significant milestones

across leading Nigerian financial institutions. She began at Investment Banking C Trust Limited and built her expertise through roles at Intercontinental Bank Limited, IBTC Asset Management Limited, and Stanbic IBTC Bank Plc. Her broad expertise spans cash management, trade services, product and business development, relationship and risk

management, wealth and portfolio management, investment banking, treasury, and foreign exchange management.

Since joining FirstBank in 2014, Olaitan has driven the repositioning of Transaction Banking and Corporate Banking businesses. Her deep market understanding and commitment to customers have positioned FirstBank as a respected industry leader, recognized for creating long-term value and fostering sustainable advancement.

Olaitan’s influence extends beyond her executive responsibilities. She is Chairman of the Board of Directors at First Insurance Brokers Limited, a director at First Bank Gambia, and, as of May 2025, a director at FBN UK, reflecting her impact across the financial sector.

Additionally, she serves as the chairman of FirstBank Women Network.

As Chairperson of the FirstBank Women Network, Olaitan champions gender inclusion, mentorship, and empowerment. Her advocacy inspires women to thrive in the workplace and helps nurture a culture of diversity within the industry.

Olaitan’s academic background highlights her commitment to excellence. She is a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), holds a Doctorate in Business Administration from the University of Durham, UK, an MBA from Manchester Business School, UK, and a bachelor’s degree in accounting from the University of Lagos, Nigeria.

Renowned as a pioneer of change, Olaitan is dedicated to mentoring and sponsoring the next generation of leaders. Her story is a testament to resilience, vision, and the transformative potential of thoughtful leadership.