Transcorp Hotels Plc has announced the appointment of Dr. (Mrs.) Awele Vivien Elumelu, OFR, as Chair of its Board of Directors, effective January 1, 2026, marking a significant leadership transition at the hospitality company.
The appointment follows the retirement of the current Chair, Mr. Emmanuel N. Nnorom, who will step down from the board at the end of his tenure on January 1, 2026.
Transcorp Hotels Plc, listed on the Nigerian Exchange Limited under the ticker TRANSCOHOT, is the hospitality subsidiary of Transnational Corporation Plc (Transcorp Group). The company said the leadership change aligns with its long-term strategy to strengthen corporate governance and drive sustainable growth across its portfolio.
Dr. Elumelu brings extensive leadership experience spanning healthcare, insurance, corporate governance and philanthropy. She currently serves as Chair of Avon Healthcare Limited, one of Nigeria’s leading health maintenance organisations, and Avon Medical Practice, a growing network of hospitals and clinics. She is also Chair of Heirs Insurance Brokers and a founding Director of Heirs Holdings Limited.
A medical doctor by training, Dr. Elumelu holds an MBBS degree from the University of Benin and has clinical experience in both Nigeria and the United Kingdom. Her professional background is further strengthened by executive education from Harvard Business School, IMD Business School in Switzerland and the London School of Economics.
Beyond her corporate roles, Dr. Elumelu is widely recognised for her work in philanthropy and social impact. She is a Trustee and Co-Founder of the Tony Elumelu Foundation, which focuses on empowering young African entrepreneurs. Through initiatives linked to the Transcorp Hotels Foundation, she has played a key role in advancing gender inclusion and supporting more than 24,000 young African men and women with access to training, mentorship and seed capital.
Commenting on the appointment, the Group Chair of Transcorp Group, Mr. Tony O. Elumelu, CFR, said the board was pleased to welcome Dr. Elumelu into the role, citing her track record in leadership and strategic execution. He said her experience aligns with the group’s ambition to redefine hospitality through innovation, operational excellence and responsible business practices.
Mr. Elumelu added that Dr. Elumelu’s strategic insight would be critical as Transcorp Hotels continues to enhance guest experiences, strengthen its market position and deliver long-term value to shareholders.
Transcorp Hotels operates some of Nigeria’s most prominent hospitality assets and has positioned itself as a key player in the country’s tourism and leisure sector. The company said the board transition would ensure continuity while supporting its growth and expansion objectives in the coming years.
