Dr. Olasupo Olusi is a prominent economist and development finance expert whose remarkable career spans over two decades. Currently serving as the Managing Director and CEO of the Bank of Industry (BOI), Dr. Olusi has built an impressive track record in economic policy, fiscal sustainability, and private sector development on both a national and global scale. His leadership at BOI has marked a new chapter in Nigeria’s industrial development, emphasizing the growth of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and driving impactful reforms that bolster the country’s economic resilience.
Dr. Olusi’s professional journey began with his tenure at the World Bank, where he made significant contributions to capital markets reform and finance development in the Middle East and North Africa. As a World Bank Country Economist, Dr. Olusi has held key positions, including Senior Private Sector Specialist at the International Finance Corporation (IFC) and Economic Adviser at Nigeria’s Federal Ministry of Finance. His work in these roles involved overseeing multi-million-dollar development projects, conducting private sector diagnostics, and managing investment lending initiatives, all aimed at fostering sustainable development. One of his notable achievements was leading the World Bank Group’s first comprehensive assessment of Nigeria’s private sector in 2020.
In his current role as Managing Director and CEO of BOI, Dr. Olusi is focused on steering the institution toward transformative economic growth. Under his leadership, BOI is implementing strategic initiatives across five key areas: SMEs, Digital Transformation, Youth and Skills Development, Gender Equality, and Climate Action. These thematic priorities reflect Dr. Olusi’s commitment to sustainable development, economic diversification, and creating an enabling environment for businesses of all sizes. Dr. Olusi’s leadership is particularly marked by his dedication to supporting MSMEs, which are critical to Nigeria’s economic fabric. He is actively involved in collaborative efforts with multiple stakeholders to drive reforms in public sector entities, enhance governance, and improve efficiency.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, recognizing Dr. Olusi’s expertise, has tasked him with ensuring equitable access to financial support for businesses across sectors, with a special focus on lower and middle-income enterprises. Dr. Olusi’s leadership at BOI is expected to be a game changer for Nigeria’s private sector, driving employment generation and wealth creation.
Dr. Olasupo Olusi’s academic credentials are equally distinguished. He holds a B.Sc. in Economics from Hull University, UK, an M.Sc. in International Money, Finance, and Investment from the University of Durham, UK, and a Ph.D. in Economics from the same institution. His academic prowess is complemented by his membership in the Royal Economic Society (UK) and the American Finance Association (USA), underscoring his commitment to advancing economic knowledge and best practices.
Dr. Olusi hails from a family of academicians. He is the son of Professor S.O. Olusi, a former dean at the College of Health Sciences, Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile Ife, Osun State, and Professor Janet Omolara Olusi, a retired professor of economics from OAU. Their intellectual legacy undoubtedly influenced Dr. Olusi’s pursuit of excellence in economics and public service. His work at the World Bank, IFC, and now the Bank of Industry showcases his ability to lead with a vision for sustainable development.
