Mastercard has announced the appointment of Folasade Femi-Lawal as their new Country Manager and Area Business Head for West Africa. Femi-Lawal brings a wealth of experience to the role, boasting over 25 years in finance, consulting, and technology.
Driving Digital Transformation:
Mark Elliott, Mastercard’s Division President for Sub-Saharan Africa, highlighted Femi-Lawal’s impressive track record: “Her leadership, innovation, and dedication to positive change align perfectly with our vision for the region.” He sees her experience in digital payments as a major asset in driving financial inclusion and pushing Nigeria towards a cashless society.
A Seasoned Leader:
Prior to joining Mastercard, Femi-Lawal led Mobile Financial Services and Digital Banking Strategy initiatives at First Bank Nigeria. Her diverse background also includes leadership roles in banking, consulting, and telecommunications.
Mastercard’s Global Push:
This appointment comes at a time when Mastercard is actively forging strategic partnerships to stay ahead in the rapidly evolving payments landscape. One such collaboration is with Circle, a leader in stablecoin issuance, aimed at bridging the gap between traditional and digital currencies.
What This Means:
Femi-Lawal’s appointment signals Mastercard’s commitment to expanding its reach and impact in West Africa. Her expertise and leadership will be crucial in driving digital innovation and financial inclusion across the region.
