When you think of brilliance wrapped in charisma, with just the right dose of warmth, Amaechi Okobi instantly comes to mind. As the Chief Brand and Communications Officer at Access Holdings, he is the mind behind some of the most impactful storytelling and reputation-building initiatives in Nigeria’s financial space. But beyond the polished suits and boardroom brilliance lies a man grounded by love, values, and fatherhood.

For Okobi, being a father is more than a title—it’s a daily expression of leadership, listening, and legacy. He speaks of fatherhood with the same intentionality he brings to building brands. Whether it’s morning routines, bedtime chats, or encouraging curiosity in his children, he is present. In a world that often measures men by career milestones, Okobi reminds us that the true measure lies in the everyday moments shared with family.

In this exclusive interview with THEWILL DOWNTOWN’s Johnson Chukwueke, we mark Father’s Day as we celebrate Amaechi Okobi as a corporate trailblazer and a man who understands balance. He juggles the demands of his role—navigating crisis communication, public perception, and stakeholder engagement—with the ease of a father who still makes time to show up, cheer loudest, and give hugs without reason.

His story is a reminder that success isn’t just about what we build professionally— it’s about the lives we shape and the love we pour into them. And in both worlds, Amaechi Okobi continues to lead with heart, humour, and unmistakable presence.

You’ve been a powerful voice in corporate communications and brand storytelling. How do you think storytelling helps humanise big institutions like banks?

Storytelling is at the heart of how we connect as human beings. That doesn’t change just because you’re working in a bank or a Financial Holding Company, in my case. It’s fair to say that the bigger the institution, the more important storytelling becomes.

At Access Holdings, we serve millions of people across different countries, cultures, and communities.

Without storytelling, it’s easy for the brand to come across as distant or overly corporate. But when we share real stories of a young entrepreneur who’s grown her business with our support or a community that now has access to clean water through one of our sustainability programs, we’re showing our human side.

The stories we tell help people see beyond what we do, but why we do it. They build trust, spark emotion, and remind everyone from customers to colleagues that we’re ultimately in the business of improving lives. That’s the kind of connection you can’t manufacture. It has to be earned, and storytelling helps us do that in a way that’s authentic and lasting.

As the Group Head of Corporate Communications at Access Holdings, how do you balance corporate strategy with creative innovation?

Balancing corporate strategy with creative innovation is about ensuring every idea serves a clear purpose. At Access Holdings, our communications strategy is deeply aligned with the Group’s strategic priorities whether it’s driving sustainable finance, expanding our African footprint, or deepening stakeholder trust. At the same time, we recognise that creativity is essential to cut through noise and connect emotionally. My role is to encourage bold thinking while ensuring consistency, compliance, and impact. We constantly test new formats, embrace data-driven storytelling, and translate complex strategies into narratives people can relate to and retell. It’s not creativity for its own sake; it’s innovation with intent. When done right, creativity becomes an incredible asset.

What’s been the most rewarding campaign or project you’ve worked on so far in your career?

I worked on the communications campaign for the merger between Access Bank and Diamond Bank. It was a defining moment for the Nigerian banking industry, so for many reasons, the team had to get it right. The campaign was more than just a corporate transaction; it was a transformation that needed to be carefully communicated both externally and internally. Externally, we crafted a bold, unifying narrative around strength, innovation, and the coming together of two of the top banks at the time, and the mission was to help customers and stakeholders navigate the transition with clarity and confidence. Internally, the focus was on bringing two distinct cultures together.

We developed a comprehensive internal communications strategy, which we executed through leadership messaging, town halls, and culture-building initiatives with a mind to fostering transparency, trust, and a shared sense of purpose.

Seeing how communications played a central role in easing uncertainty, uniting employees, and positioning the new Access Bank as a stronger, more inclusive institution was incredibly fulfilling. It reinforced my belief in communications as both a strategic and cultural force.

What’s one leadership trait you’ve had to grow into as your career evolved?

One leadership trait I’ve had to grow into is active listening. Early in my career, I focused heavily on delivering results and driving strategy, but as my role evolved, I realised that true leadership isn’t just about having the answers; it’s about creating space for others to contribute meaningfully.

This is particularly key in communications, where understanding nuance, context, and diverse perspectives is critical. Whether engaging with team members or stakeholders, learning to pause, absorb, and respond thoughtfully has made me a more empathetic, effective, and inclusive leader. It’s a skill I continue to refine.

How do you stay grounded and authentic in an industry that often demands polish and perfection?

I think it starts with being clear on what your purpose and values are.

I try to lead with integrity, keeping people at the centre of the work and remembering that communication is ultimately about connection, not performance.

Studies have shown that authenticity builds trust faster than perfection ever could. It’s essential to focus on genuine connection because, at heart, communication is about building trust and meaningful relationships. I’ve also learned that it takes courage to be vulnerable: admitting when I don’t have all the answers and being open to honest feedback from colleagues and stakeholders. This openness fosters deeper engagement and helps break down barriers, making authenticity more powerful than perfection. By leading with integrity and staying true to myself, I’m able to cut through the noise and create communications that resonate on a human level, driving real impact beyond surface-level polish. In the end, polish has its place, but it’s authenticity that makes the message stick.

If you had to pick a motto that defines your leadership style, what would it be, and why?

“Lead with purpose, act with integrity,” would be my motto. I believe that effective leadership begins with a clear sense of purpose that guides every decision and inspires the team toward a common goal.

Equally important is acting with integrity. When you are honest, transparent, and consistent in all interactions, you build trust and respect, which are the foundation of strong, collaborative teams. Leading with purpose ensures that actions are intentional and aligned with our vision, while acting with integrity guarantees those actions are ethical and authentic.

This approach has helped me navigate complex challenges, foster a culture of accountability, and inspire a shared commitment to our values and goals. It also sets a good example for those who are watching. Ultimately, leading with purpose and acting with integrity allows me to create a lasting impact while staying true to who I am.

Let’s talk about fatherhood. What does being a dad mean to you personally?

Being a dad means everything to me. It’s my most important role beyond work. Well, that and being a husband to my awesome wife. I think fatherhood is about love, presence, and guidance. Showing up consistently, listening deeply, and being a steady source of support and encouragement is just the start. Being a dad means nurturing curiosity, teaching values like kindness and resilience, and helping shape my children’s sense of confidence and purpose. It’s a continuous learning journey that challenges me to be more patient and intentional every day. Fatherhood keeps me grounded and reminds me of what truly matters: family, connection, and legacy. This is the role that brings me the greatest joy and fulfilment, shaping not just the lives of my children but also the kind of person I strive to be.

How has being a father shaped your values and the way you approach your work?

Being a father has deeply shaped my values and transformed the way I approach my work.

Fatherhood has given me a greater sense of responsibility, not just to my family but to the people and communities my work impacts.

I’ve become more empathetic, more intentional, and more focused on legacy. Being the father of boys has taught me the importance of patience, perspective, and purpose. I value time differently now and communicate more thoughtfully and with greater humility.

At work, my belief in building inclusive, people-centred narratives is strengthened. It’s important that I create environments where others feel seen and supported.

In the final analysis, being a father has reminded me that success isn’t just about achievement; it’s about impact and the kind of world we’re helping to shape for the next generation.

What’s a weekend with your children like when work isn’t calling? Any favourite shared hobbies or routines?

My weekends with my children are something I truly cherish. A chance to slow down and enjoy the simple, meaningful moments that often get lost in the drama of the week. We usually start with a relaxed breakfast together after my exercise routine. There’s no rush, just conversation and laughter (most of the time). As boys will be boys, there are times when I would absolutely rather be in the office for the ‘peace and quiet.’

Our time together is a blend of shared interests. We might go for walks with our dog, visit an art gallery, or play a quiet game of chess. But just as often, we shift gears and follow their lead. Movies are also a prominent feature with popcorn, blankets, and plenty of commentary.

Sundays are always for church, brunch and family visits. What matters most to me isn’t the activity but the connection. Our weekends, full of energy, curiosity, and quiet rituals, ground me. They remind me of what truly matters and recharge me with the perspective I take back into my work. It’s in those shared, unhurried moments that I find the clearest sense of purpose.

Do you see glimpses of yourself in your children, and what qualities of yours are you most excited to see them grow into?

Absolutely. Each one of my boys is incredible in his own unique way. Still, I see parts of myself in them all the time, often in the smallest, most heartwarming ways. It’s a mix of how curious they are, how they lose themselves in building something, and how happy they generally are.

There’s quiet determination, deep sensitivity, and a spark of humour that feel so familiar to me.

One has a quiet thoughtfulness and steady determination that feels very familiar to me. He’s reflective, grounded, and starting to shape his own view of the world with a strong sense of integrity.

The other is full of energy and wide-eyed curiosity. He approaches life with a sense of wonder, always asking questions, always exploring.

There’s a warmth and empathy in him that shows up in the smallest moments: a kind word, a thoughtful gesture, a spontaneous laugh.

What brings me the most joy is watching them grow into qualities I’ve come to truly value in life: empathy, kindness, and a strong sense of self. I hope they stay gentle and thoughtful, that they keep asking questions, and that they always treat people with respect and compassion.

Johnson Chukwueke
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