By Akindele Emmanuel

Chinyere Famakinwa (nee Obiora), a seasoned compliance specialist with a robust track record in Nigeria’s banking sector, continues to make waves in her field. With a career spanning over a decade, Chinyere holds a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting (Second Class Upper) and a Master in Business Administration (MBA), and she is a Chartered Accountant with ICAN.

Starting her career at C&I Leasing as an accountant before transitioning to banking, Chinyere gained valuable experience that laid the foundation for her success. Prior to joining Premium Trust Bank PLC, she served as Head of Compliance at Lotus Bank, where she made a significant impact by training over 60 compliance specialists who are now excelling in compliance roles across various banks in Nigeria.

Chinyere was at Ecobank Nigeria PLC. She swiftly rose through the ranks, eventually transitioning to compliance roles at Access Bank PLC, Lotus Bank and Fidelity Bank PLC. Her tenure at Fidelity Bank saw her recognized as the most customer-centric staff in the compliance unit, a testament to her dedication and professionalism.

In February 2024, Chinyere was headhunted by Premium Trust Bank PLC to lead their regulatory compliance efforts, showcasing her reputation as a sought-after compliance expert. Her role involves overseeing compliance functions, drafting frameworks, and ensuring adherence to regulatory guidelines—a responsibility she approaches with passion and diligence. “I am committed to building a knowledgeable compliance team instilling a culture of compliance excellence across the institution,” Chinyere emphasizes.

Chinyere’s journey is characterized by her commitment to combatting financial crimes such as money laundering and terrorist financing. “I encourage aspiring professionals to pursue certifications in compliance and stay abreast of sector-specific regulations,” Chinyere advises. Her certifications as a Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialist (CAMS) and Certified Risk and Compliance Management Professional (CRCMP) reflect her dedication to upholding industry standards and best practices.

Reflecting on her accomplishments, Chinyere emphasizes the importance of compliance education and training. She aspires to build a knowledgeable compliance team at Premium Trust Bank PLC, instilling a culture of compliance excellence across the institution.

In addition to her corporate role, Chinyere is on a mission to establish a consultancy firm offering specialized compliance advisory services. Through this venture, she aims to provide tailored compliance solutions to financial institutions, startups, and businesses seeking to navigate regulatory complexities effectively.

Chinyere’s story underscores the pivotal role of compliance specialists in safeguarding financial institutions and fostering integrity within the banking sector. Her journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring professionals, highlighting the value of continuous learning, adaptability, and a steadfast commitment to ethical practices.

As Chinyere continues to chart new territories in compliance, her impact resonates across Nigeria’s financial landscape, reinforcing the critical importance of regulatory compliance in sustaining trust and stability within the industry.