Folake Ani-Mumuney, a renowned figure in corporate communications, has officially retired from her role as the Global Head of Marketing and Corporate Communications at FirstBank, marking the end of a remarkable 15-year tenure.
Confirming her retirement, Ani-Mumuney expressed gratitude for her professional journey, which spans over 25 years and includes pivotal roles across banking, aviation, manufacturing and oil and gas industries. “As I bow out of FirstBank and draw a curtain on this phase at the year’s end, God has been wonderful to me, and I have so much to be thankful for,” she shared in a message.
Ani-Mumuney’s impact has not gone unnoticed. Gaia Africa, a private business club for Africa’s top female executives, honoured her legacy in an Instagram post, praising her contributions to gender equity and female leadership. “FAM has carved a remarkable path, earning a stellar reputation for her diligence and unwavering support for other women,” the organisation stated. Gaia Africa also commended her for inspiring countless initiatives promoting women in leadership roles.
Appointed as the Global Head of Marketing and Corporate Communications at FirstBank in 2010, Ani-Mumuney has left an indelible mark on the institution. Her tenure was characterised by innovative campaigns and strategic initiatives that elevated FirstBank’s brand on a global scale.
Before joining FirstBank, Ani-Mumuney held leadership roles at British Airways and the Dangote Group, managing portfolios across Europe, Africa, the Asia-Pacific, the Middle East and the United Kingdom. She has been an advocate for women’s empowerment, serving on the board of Women in Successful Careers (WISCAR), a non-profit organisation dedicated to advancing women’s professional growth in Nigeria and Africa.
Her leadership extended beyond the corporate sphere. As a past president of the Advertisers Association of Nigeria (ADVAN), she was instrumental in shaping the marketing industry. She is also a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Marketing (UK) and the National Institute of Marketing of Nigeria and holds honourary membership with the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria.
Ani-Mumuney’s academic credentials are equally impressive. She holds a degree in philosophy from the University of Lagos, a law degree from the University of Buckingham and a diploma in business computing systems analysis and design. She is an alumnus of the Harvard Business School Advanced Management Programme and has attended executive education programmes at prestigious global institutions.
Her contributions have earned her numerous accolades, including three lifetime achievement awards, both locally and internationally. She is also a sought-after speaker, often sharing insights on driving Africa’s growth and development.
As Folake Ani-Mumuney steps into the next phase of her life, the accolades from colleagues, organisations and admirers underscore the legacy she leaves behind. Gaia Africa aptly summed up her impact: “May this new adventure be even more rewarding and impactful than your journey with FirstBank.”
Her retirement marks the end of an era for FirstBank but signals the beginning of new opportunities for one of Africa’s most accomplished professionals.
