The National Institute of Credit Administration has conferred its highest professional honour, a professional fellowship, on Mrs Uche Uzoebo, Managing Director of Shared Agent Network Expansion Facilities, in recognition of her outstanding contributions to financial inclusion and credit management in Nigeria.
The announcement was made in Lagos during the investiture of Dr Markie Idowu as the institute’s new president. In his welcome address, Prof. Chris Onalo, Registrar and CEO of NICA, highlighted the institute’s role in advancing credit management, promoting professionalism, and empowering Nigerians with credit literacy.
“Unlike many other professional bodies, NICA recognises that credit management is a lifeline of commerce, influencing every aspect of business, social, and economic life. Through this commitment, the Institute continues to shape Nigeria’s economic future towards sustainable growth,” Onalo said.
The Fellowship represents NICA’s highest professional distinction and is awarded to individuals whose leadership has significantly strengthened Nigeria’s credit environment, institutional governance frameworks, and the integrity of the financial system.
The recognition coincided with global celebrations of International Women’s Day, underlining the growing acknowledgement of women’s leadership and contributions across industries, particularly in finance and economic development.
Mrs Uzoebo, a seasoned business executive and financial services leader with over two decades of experience spanning banking, digital payments, and financial services, has been instrumental in advancing secure and inclusive financial solutions in Nigeria. Through SANEF, she has expanded agent networks, promoted financial literacy, and championed technology-enabled initiatives that bring last-mile financial services to underserved communities.
A proven change agent, Uzoebo also focuses on gender inclusion and women’s economic empowerment, advocating for women entrepreneurs and working to dismantle structural barriers that limit economic participation. As a certified trainer, she designs and delivers high-impact capacity-building programmes for individuals, youth, women, and organisations, enabling sustainable growth and improved performance.
The ceremony brought together senior financial sector executives, policymakers, regulators, and distinguished guests to celebrate excellence in credit administration and professional practice, cementing Uzoebo’s position as a leading figure in driving financial inclusion and inclusive economic growth in Nigeria.
