Gtext Holdings, a global real estate and technology conglomerate, has appointed former inspector-general of police, Mike Okiro as its new chairman.

The deputy group chief operating officer, Farouq Usman, disclosed this in a statement on Thursday in Lagos.

Mr Usman said the company’s founder, Stephen Akintayo, stepped down as chairman on Wednesday, handing over leadership to the former IGP.

He explained that Mr Akintayo’s decision was to enable him focus on “new offerings”, including SACI Holdings, a private equity firm.

Mr Usman described Mr Okiro as a seasoned leader and former board member, saying his appointment was “fortuitous as the company enters a new era of visibility”.

He added that Mr Akintayo led Gtext’s international expansion, particularly into Texas, United States, with plans for a $200 million property portfolio.

In a goodwill message, Mr Okiro thanked the board for the confidence reposed in him and pledged to uphold leadership excellence.

He described Mr Akintayo as “a beacon of dreams”, whose vision has positively impacted lives and economies across Africa.

Mr Okiro, the 13th IG, said his focus would be sustainable growth, operational efficiency, innovation, strategic expansion, and community engagement.

Gtext Holdings, founded in 2008, operates globally with interests in smart real estate, agriculture, education, media, security, and property development across Africa, Europe, North America, and Asia. 

(NAN)