Development Finance Institutions (DFIs) took center stage and emerged as the big winners at the prestigious African Banker Awards Gala Ceremony 2025. Held at the Sofitel Hotel in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, the event celebrated the achievements of individuals and institutions that have significantly contributed to the growth and development of Africa’s banking sector in the past year.
The ceremony, now in its 19th year, saw DFIs clinch five awards, underscoring their growing recognition, importance, and impact in the African financial and banking ecosystem. Among the notable winners were Uganda’s Patricia Ojangole, who became the second woman banker from East Africa to be named African Banker of the Year. Nigeria’s Central Bank Governor, Yemi Cardoso, was recognized for the country’s reforms, which have boosted investor confidence.
Another standout winner was Nadia Fettah, the Economy and Finance Minister of Morocco, who was honored as Finance Minister of the Year for her adept macroeconomic management. The event was graced by prominent figures in banking and finance from across the continent, including Ivorian sprinter Murielle Ahouré-Demps, who highlighted the importance of discipline and vision in achieving success.
Omar Ben Yedder, Chair of the Awards Committee, emphasized the pivotal role of the private sector and banks in driving Africa’s transformation. He underscored the need for strong African-owned banks to unlock scale and fuel the continent’s progress. The Awards also recognized Ecobank with the AFAWA Award for gender lens lending and support to women-led businesses, championed by Dr. Beth Dunford of the African Development Bank.
The event was supported by high-level sponsors such as the African Guarantee Fund and featured a cocktail reception sponsored by African Trade and Investment Development Insurance (ATIDI). The Awards highlighted the significant contributions of DFIs like Ugandan Development Bank, TDB, ATIDI, Afreximbank, AFC, and BOI in catalyzing investments and deals across Africa.
In addition to individual awards, notable deals in infrastructure, debt, and equity were recognized, showcasing the innovative and impactful projects driving economic growth on the continent. The ceremony also honored Idrissa Nassa, the Group CEO of Coris Bank, with the Lifetime Achievement Award for his outstanding contribution to the African banking landscape.
The African Banker Awards, organized by African Banker magazine in partnership with IC Events, continue to celebrate excellence and best practices in African banking and finance. The event brings together industry leaders to acknowledge the innovation, resilience, and competitiveness driving the continent’s financial sector forward.
For more information about the African Banker Awards and to stay updated on the latest developments in African banking, visit www.AfricanBankerAwards.com. African Banker remains a trusted source of information on the trends shaping Africa’s financial landscape, offering unique insights into the challenges and opportunities within the banking sector.
Media inquiries can be directed to Constance Haasz at c.haasz@icpublications.com. The African Banker Awards 2025 was indeed a testament to the remarkable achievements and impactful contributions of individuals and institutions shaping the future of banking and finance in Africa.
