NCDF names Nicholas Connell as new helmsman

The Nigerian Capital Development Fund (NCDF Group), a leading development finance and impact investment institution, has announced the appointment of Mr. Nicholas John Connell as its new Group Managing Director & Chief Compliance Officer.
A seasoned expert in private equity, venture capital, and financial risk management, Mr. Connell brings a wealth of experience in designing and deploying high-impact investment instruments across emerging markets.
In his dual leadership role, Mr. Connell will oversee the development and deployment of bespoke investment vehicles, including debt notes, equity-linked securities, and ESG-compliant structured products, crafted to address Nigeria’s most pressing development priorities in housing, healthcare, fintech, green infrastructure, and diaspora investment platforms.
NCDF Group’s Chairman & CEO, Hareter Babatunde Oralusi, said, “Mr. Connell’s appointment marks a strategic inflection point for NCDF. His international expertise and deep understanding of financial structuring will empower us to unlock new capital flows, deepen investor confidence, and translate our mission into viable, scalable financial instruments that fuel sustainable economic growth in Nigeria.”
Mr. Connell will ensure that NCDF’s diverse investment offerings align with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) Nigeria’s regulatory framework and will lead efforts to strengthen governance, transparency, and institutional resilience across NCDF’s operational portfolio.
Commenting on his appointment, Mr. Connell stated, “I am honoured to join NCDF Group at a time of tremendous opportunity. Nigeria’s development landscape is brimming with potential, and I look forward to working with our talented teams and partners to structure investments that drive impact, unlock prosperity, and inspire confidence in African-led capital solutions.”
With Nicholas John Connell at the helm, NCDF Group is poised to accelerate its mission of building a resilient, inclusive, and opportunity-rich Nigeria through smart capital and innovative partnerships.

