… Takes Charge in an Unforgettable Children’s Day Celebration
In celebration of 2025 Children’s Day, Wema Bank, Nigeria’s most innovative financial institution and pioneer of Africa’s first fully digital bank, ALAT, has named 12-year-old **Chiderije Mbah** as its **One-Day Managing Director/CEO**, giving him the reins of leadership for a day at the bank’s headquarters in Marina, Lagos.
This remarkable initiative, launched in May 2025, is part of Wema Bank’s commitment to nurturing future leaders and empowering the next generation. As the bank celebrates **80 years of legacy and innovation**, it continues to lead by example in youth engagement and early financial education.
Chiderije emerged winner of the One-Day MD/CEO challenge after submitting a captivating video expressing his dream to lead a bank and his vision for making finance fun and accessible for children. His entry, shared via social media, stood out among numerous creative submissions from across the country.
The Children’s Day campaign invited young Nigerians to participate in an online challenge by posting short videos in Wema colours, stating their desired role in banking, and holding or opening a **Royal Kiddies Account** (ages 0–12) or an **ALAT Xplore Wallet** (ages 13–17). The initiative combined excitement with purpose, promoting early financial literacy and big dreams.
On May 27, Chiderije was welcomed like a true CEO with a purple carpet reception, a guided tour of the head office, and the opportunity to conduct an executive briefing with the bank’s senior leadership team.
> *“This is the best day of my life,”* Chiderije said, beaming with joy. *“Wema Bank made me feel important. I’ve learned so much about being a leader and how banking works. I’m going to tell all my friends to open a Wema Bank Royal Kiddies Account so they can start saving and maybe become MD too someday!”*
Wema Bank’s Managing Director/CEO, **Moruf Oseni**, applauded the initiative, saying:
> *“Our 80th anniversary is not just about looking back; it’s about looking forward to a future shaped by brilliant young minds like Chiderije. This initiative reaffirms our belief in children and our commitment to supporting them financially, personally, and professionally.”*
This inspiring experience reflects Wema Bank’s broader vision for a future-ready Nigeria, where every child has access to opportunities that ignite their potential. As Wema Bank continues its legacy of innovation and impact, it remains dedicated to shaping the leaders of tomorrow—one child at a time.
