Facts about Ayo Sotinrin, new Bank of Agriculture MD

President Bola Tinubu has appointed Ayo Sotinrin as the new Managing Director of the Bank of Agriculture, marking a bold move to reposition Nigeria’s agricultural sector for growth and sustainability.

Here’s what you need to know about the man now leading one of Nigeria’s most strategic financial institutions:

1. A Track Record in Agribusiness Leadership

Ayo Sotinrin served as Group Chief Executive Officer of the SAO Group, where he led several game-changing agricultural initiatives. He was at the forefront of developing a 20,000-hectare oil palm plantation and overseeing large-scale poultry, aquaculture, maize, and cassava projects in Ondo State. His work has had a direct impact on food production and agribusiness development in Nigeria.

2. Major Fund Mobiliser

Sotinrin has demonstrated remarkable ability in raising development finance. Through SAO Capital, he secured over $750 million in infrastructure funding, including a standout $200 million deal for the Akure Water Supply Project. His financial acumen is expected to come in handy as he steers the Bank of Agriculture into a new phase.

3. Strong Public Sector Experience

Between 2011 and 2015, Sotinrin served as Special Adviser on Environment and Urban Development to the Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). His experience navigating federal governance structures gives him an edge in aligning agricultural financing with government priorities.

4. Global Consulting and Development Work

Sotinrin has worked closely with international development partners including the World Bank, African Development Bank (AfDB), DFID, and USAID. He has provided advisory support on high-level federal and state projects, reflecting a broad understanding of global development finance and agricultural policy.

5. International Banking and Regulatory Background

Before venturing fully into agribusiness and development finance, Sotinrin held positions at the Royal Bank of Scotland International, Deutsche Bank, and the UK Environment Agency. His international exposure adds depth to his leadership portfolio.

6. Impressive Academic Credentials

Sotinrin holds an Executive MBA from Oxford University’s prestigious Saïd Business School. He also has a Master’s in Engineering Business Management from Warwick University and an Advanced Diploma in Environmental Conservation. His academic background reinforces his capacity to lead innovation in agriculture and finance.

7. Aligned with Tinubu’s Food Security Agenda

President Tinubu said Sotinrin’s appointment aligns with his administration’s strategic vision to reposition the Bank of Agriculture as a catalyst for food security, sovereignty, and rural prosperity.

With his wealth of experience and proven leadership, stakeholders are optimistic that Ayo Sotinrin’s appointment will mark a turning point in the delivery of agricultural finance and rural development in Nigeria.