By Felix Khanoba
King’s Trust International (KTI) has announced the appointment of renowned banker and reform advocate Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, and his wife, Ofovwe Aig-Imoukhuede, an accomplished lawyer, banker, and philanthropist, as Co-Chairs of its Africa Advisory Board.
In a statement released on Wednesday, the international charity said the leadership transition marks a strategic step forward in its mission to empower young Africans through education, employability, and entrepreneurship initiatives.
Formed to harness African expertise and leadership, the Africa Advisory Board guides KTI’s growth and operations across the continent—strengthening networks, mobilising resources, and shaping youth-focused programmes adapted to Africa’s realities.
“Africa boasts the world’s youngest population, with over 60% under the age of 25. While this demographic presents a significant opportunity for economic and social progress, youth unemployment and underemployment remain critical challenges, particularly in fragile and underserved communities.
“The Africa Advisory Board exists to confront these challenges head-on. Under the stewardship of Aigboje and Ofovwe Aig-Imoukhuede, the Board will focus on scaling innovative, high-impact programmes that help young people gain relevant skills, find work, or set up their own businesses,” the statement said.
KTI described the new Co-Chairs as bringing a wealth of experience in financial services, governance reform, and philanthropy, along with a collaborative approach that bridges public, private, and philanthropic sectors.
Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, a visionary business leader and philanthropist, is widely recognised for transforming Access Bank into one of Nigeria’s leading financial institutions. He currently chairs Access Holdings and Coronation Group, and co-founded the Aig-Imoukhuede Foundation, dedicated to driving social impact and excellence in the public sector.
His wife, Ofovwe, co-founded and serves as Executive Vice-Chair of the Aig-Imoukhuede Foundation. She is also Vice-Chair of The Ovie Brume Foundation and has long championed youth and women’s empowerment, equitable development, and stronger healthcare and public services.
“Their vision for the Board extends beyond programme expansion to systemic change — driving advocacy and growing partnerships across sectors to create sustainable opportunities for Africa’s youth,” the statement added.
Responding to their appointment, Aigboje and Ofovwe Aig-Imoukhuede said: “We are honoured to take on this role at a pivotal time for Africa’s future. Our mission is to unlock the potential and creativity of Africa’s youth, nurturing a generation that will lead sustainable development across the continent. We look forward to collaborating with partners who share our commitment to transforming lives through education, opportunity, and innovation.”
KTI’s Chief Executive Officer, Will Straw, praised outgoing Co-Chairs Bernard and Genevieve Mensah, commending their contributions over the past six years.
“Bernard and Genevieve have provided exceptional and visionary leadership that has been instrumental in establishing and growing KTI’s presence and impact across Africa. Their dedication over the past six years has laid a strong and lasting foundation for our work on the continent. We are delighted that they will both continue to contribute their valuable expertise as members of the Africa Advisory Board.”
Looking ahead, Straw expressed optimism about the future direction of the board.
“As we look to the future, we are excited to take our impact to the next level with Aigboje and Ofovwe Aig-Imoukhuede. Their extensive experience, deep commitment, and visionary approach will be vital in scaling our programmes and achieving even greater impact for young people across Africa. Together, we will drive forward innovative solutions that empower the next generation to learn, earn, and thrive throughout the continent.”
Since its African launch in 2016, King’s Trust International has supported over 30,000 young people across nine countries, boasting an 83% success rate in helping participants secure employment or return to education within three months of completing its programmes.
Founded in 2015 by His Majesty King Charles III, KTI builds on nearly five decades of proven youth impact in the UK. Now active in about 20 countries across the Commonwealth and beyond, it collaborates with local organisations to deliver transformative opportunities in education, employability, and entrepreneurship.
As KTI celebrates its 10th anniversary, it has supported more than 125,000 young people globally and recently launched the ambitious “Generation Potential” campaign — a decade-long initiative aiming to empower one million more young people to shape a brighter future worldwide.
