Ave Maria Microfinance Bank has entered a new phase of growth following regulatory approval from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to relocate its head office to an urban centre,an important milestone that reflects the bank’s rising profile and operational strength.
The approval comes on the back of remarkable performance over the past two years, during which the bank has significantly strengthened its quality asset base, improved portfolio performance, and expanded its financial services footprint. These gains have not only enhanced profitability but also reinforced stakeholder confidence, positioning the bank for broader market relevance.
This trajectory of success is closely linked to the visionary leadership of the Catholic Bishop of Oyo Diocese, Emmanuel Badejo, whose strategic foresight as founder and key shareholder has continued to guide the institution’s mission. Equally instrumental is Mr John Alamu, whose role as co–key shareholder goes beyond support to active strategic partnership; providing critical financial backing, governance insight, and sustained commitment that have significantly strengthened the bank’s growth, stability, and long-term positioning.
At the governance level, the Board of Directors, under the chairmanship of Rev. Fr. Gabriel Adeleke, has provided strong strategic direction, ensuring prudent management and institutional discipline. This has enabled the bank to transition effectively into a higher operational tier, reflecting improved capitalization, governance standards, and service delivery capacity.
A key highlight of the bank’s transformation is its deployment of fintech-driven solutions, designed to deepen customer engagement, enhance service efficiency, and promote financial inclusion—especially among undeserved populations. This digital shift aligns with national priorities and positions the bank competitively within Nigeria’s evolving financial ecosystem.
The newly relocated head office was formally commissioned by Bishop Badejo on the 27th of March, 2026, marking both a symbolic and operational leap forward. The move to an urban hub is expected to unlock new business opportunities, strengthen customer access, and support the bank’s long-term expansion strategy.
With regulatory backing, strong leadership, and a clear growth vision, Ave Maria Microfinance Bank is now poised to consolidate its gains and play a more prominent role in advancing inclusive financial services in Nigeria.
Mr Patrick Faola
The Managing Director
