By Sola Aderibigbe

Michael Ogunkola is a distinguished Chartered Accountant and certified audit expert whose leadership has been redefining financial governance within Nigeria’s telecommunications industry since 2018. With nearly two decades of experience spanning banking, consulting, and telecommunications, Michael’s expertise lies in integrating risk management, compliance, and strategic financial operations to drive sustainable corporate success.

Michael earned his Chartered Accountant qualification in 2006, beginning a career rich in financial expertise. Joining Globacom in 2018, Michael quickly rose to influence the company’s financial control systems. By 2020, he assumed the role of Executive Lead for Finance Risk Management, Strategy, and Operations.

As the Executive Lead for Finance Risk Management, Strategy, and Operations his role encompasses the design and implementation of comprehensive financial oversight systems aimed at enhancing transparency, safeguarding assets, and ensuring alignment with stringent regulatory requirements.

Michael’s impressive credentials include fellowships and certifications from top global institutions: he is a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (FCA), a Certified Internal Auditor (CIA), Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE), Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA), and an Associate Member of the Association of Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialists (ACAMS). These qualifications empower him to expertly navigate complex audit landscapes, prevent financial irregularities, and build resilient control environments.

Beyond his core responsibilities, Michael serves as a Non-Executive Director on multiple boards, lending his governance expertise to organizations such as SMAT Concepts & Resources International, a financial advisory managing over $500 million in digital assets, FSI Capital & Investment Limited, and Green Fillet Bureau De Change Limited. His board engagements reflect his broader commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s financial sector governance.

Passionate about economic empowerment, Michael is spearheading efforts to launch Nigeria’s first digital financial literacy and empowerment platform. This innovative initiative is designed to equip emerging entrepreneurs with practical tools and actionable insights, promoting financial inclusion and sustainable business growth across the country.

Michael believes that “financial governance is not merely a function; it is the backbone of trust and sustainability in business.” His vision is grounded in building systems that are transparent, accountable, and agile enough to support both corporate objectives and Nigeria’s broader economic development.

As telecommunications technology advances at a rapid pace, Michael Ogunkola’s forward-thinking approach to financial management ensures that Globacom remains not only a market leader but also a benchmark for integrity and innovation within Nigeria’s economic ecosystem.