Access Bank Zambia Limited Announces Transition in Leadership
Lusaka, Zambia, 15 October 2025: Access Bank Zambia Limited (“Access Bank” or the Bank) today announces a transition in its executive leadership as Mr. Lishala C. Situmbeko has stepped down from his role as Country Managing Director (“CMD”). This follows extensive deliberations with the Board of Directors with respect to his departure, for personal reasons, effective 30September 2025.
The Board has unanimously appointed Deputy Managing Director, Dr. Iheanyi Nwogu, as Acting Managing Director, effective immediately, following regulatory approval from the Bank of Zambia. He will act in this capacity until the appointment of a substantive Managing Director.
During Mr. Situmbeko’s four-year tenure, the Bank achieved significant milestones, most notably, the successful execution and integration of two bank mergers. These strategic moves were pivotal in establishing Access Bank Zambia as the 5 th largest and 4 th most profitable bank in the market. His leadership was also instrumental in enhancing the Bank’s risk management framework, elevating customer experience, strengthening corporate governance, and deepening its commitment to sustainable growth and community engagement.
The Board Chairperson, Ms. Anne Sampa, commented: “On behalf of the Board, I extend our profound gratitude to Lishala for his exemplary leadership and immense contribution to the Bank’s growth and transformation. We wish him every success in his future pursuits.”
Dr. Nwogu brings over 22 years of banking experience to this role, including 18 years with Access Bank PLC Group. He has been integral to the Group’s expansion, bringing extensive expertise in merger and acquisitions integration. Since joining Access Bank Zambia in May 2023 as Deputy Managing Director overseeing Wholesale Banking and Operations, he has been a key architect of the Bank’s strategic direction and operational excellence.
“The Board has full confidence in Iheanyi’s ability to provide steady leadership and continues to deliver to its stakeholders during this interim period,” continued Ms Sampa. His deep operational knowledge, client-centric approach, and understanding of the financial services landscape have been critical to reinforcing our market position. We are assured of a seamless transition that will maintain the Bank’s strategic momentum.
Speaking on his appointment, Dr. Iheanyi Nwogu stated, “I am honoured to assume the role of Acting Managing Director in this important market for Access Bank. I remain committed to ensuring stability and continuity for our staff members, clients, and shareholders. This includes maintaining an unwavering focus on executing our business strategy, upholding a robust risk culture, and delivering the exceptional service that is synonymous with the Access Bank brand. I look forward to continuing to work closely with our highly talented team across the organisation.”
Access Bank Zambia remains steadfast in its long-term strategy, driven by digital innovation, operational excellence, and prudent financial management. The Bank is committed to its vision of being the World’s Most Respected African Bank and its resolve to become the leading financial institution in Zambia by 2027.
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Issued by:
Kalumbu Nyikosa-Kearns - (Head, Corporate Communications and Brand Management)
Email: Kearnsk@accessbankplc.com | Mobile: +260 764 902 469
About Access Bank Zambia Limited
Access Bank Zambia Limited is a subsidiary of Access Bank PLC, one of Africa’s leading financial institutions. Since its incorporation in 2008, the Bank has demonstrated consistent growth, driven by a series of strategic acquisitions. The integration of Cavmont Bank in 2021 and the subsequent landmark merger with Atlas Mara Zambia in 2024 have transformed the Bank into a top-five financial institution in Zambia by assets and profitability. With the largest physical footprint in the country - 72 branches, agencies, and cash centres across all 10 provinces with 1,200 staff members - Access Bank Zambia is uniquely positioned to deliver best-in-class financial services nationwide.
The Bank remains dedicated to its core philosophy of delivering sustainable economic growth that is profitable, environmentally responsible, and socially relevant, in pursuit of its vision to be the World’s Most Respected African Bank.
For further information, visit: https://zambia.accessbankplc.com
About Access Bank PLC
Access Bank PLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Access Holdings Plc, is a multinational financial institution with a presence in 24 countries across three continents. Serving a customer base of over 65 million through more than 700 branches and service outlets, the Bank employs over 28,000 people worldwide. It provides a full suite of commercial banking services through its segments: Personal, Business, Operations and IT, Commercial, and Corporate & Investment Banking.
With the most successful banking growth trajectory in Africa over the past two decades, present in 17 countries, becoming one of the continent’s largest retail banking groups. Access Bank is committed to delivering sustainable value to its stakeholders, driven by operational excellence, digital innovation, and a deep commitment to its core markets.
For further information, visit: www.accessbankplc.com