Transcorp Hotels Plc has announced the appointment of Dr. Awele Elumelu, wife of Transcorp Group Chairman Tony Elumelu, as the new Chair of its Board of Directors. This significant leadership transition is set to take effect from January 1, 2026, marking a new chapter for the prominent hospitality company.

The company disclosed the appointment in a statement filed with the Nigerian Exchange on Tuesday, signed by Group Company Secretary Atinuke Kolade. This move is presented as a strategic step to bolster board leadership and ensure the company’s governance structure is closely aligned with its long-term objectives within Nigeria’s dynamic hospitality sector.

Dr. Elumelu brings a wealth of experience to the role, currently serving as Chair of Avon Healthcare Limited and Avon Medical Practice. Her extensive background spans critical sectors including healthcare, insurance, corporate governance, and philanthropy, providing a diverse and robust foundation for her new responsibilities.

She will succeed Emmanuel Nnorom, who is scheduled to retire from his position as Chairman on the same date the new appointment becomes effective. Nnorom’s tenure has overseen significant developments, and his retirement marks the end of an era for the board.

Tony Elumelu expressed his enthusiasm for his wife’s appointment, stating, “We are delighted to welcome Dr. Awele Elumelu as the Board Chair of Transcorp Hotels.” He emphasized that her “distinguished track record perfectly aligns with our ambition to redefine hospitality through innovation, wellness integration, and responsible business practices.”

He further elaborated on the strategic importance of her leadership, noting that “Her strategic insight will be invaluable, as we continue to elevate guest experiences and deliver sustainable value to all stakeholders.” This highlights the expectation of continued growth and enhanced service delivery under her guidance.

A medical doctor by training, Dr. Elumelu holds an MBBS degree from the University of Benin and has practiced medicine in both Nigeria and the United Kingdom. Her academic pursuits have also included executive education programs at prestigious institutions such as Harvard Business School, IMD Switzerland, and the London School of Economics.

Beyond her medical career, Dr. Elumelu holds significant leadership positions in other key organizations. She chairs Heirs Insurance Brokers and is a founding director of Heirs Holdings Limited, an investment company with diverse interests in financial services, power, energy, and hospitality.

Furthermore, Dr. Elumelu is a co-founder and trustee of the Tony Elumelu Foundation. This philanthropic organization is dedicated to empowering young African entrepreneurs, having provided crucial seed capital, training, and mentorship to over 24,000 beneficiaries across the continent.

Transcorp Hotels Plc is the dedicated hospitality arm of Transnational Corporation Plc (Transcorp Group). The parent group has substantial interests in the power, hospitality, and energy sectors and is a publicly listed entity on the Nigerian Exchange.

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Keywords: Awele Elumelu, Transcorp Hotels, Board Chair appointment, Tony Elumelu, Nigerian Exchange, hospitality sector, Avon Healthcare, Heirs Holdings, Transcorp Group, Emmanuel Nnorom