Transcorp Hotels Plc, the hospitality subsidiary of Transnational Corporation Plc, has announced the appointment of Dr. (Mrs.) Awele Vivien Elumelu as its Board Chair, effective January 1, 2026.
Elumelu will succeed Mr. Emmanuel N. Nnorom, who is set to retire from the position upon the completion of his tenure on the same date, the company said.
She brings to the role extensive leadership experience across healthcare, insurance, corporate governance and philanthropy. Elumelu currently chairs Avon Healthcare Limited (Avon HMO), one of Nigeria’s leading health insurance providers, and Avon Medical Practice, a fast-growing network of hospitals and clinics.
She also serves as Chair of Heirs Insurance Brokers and is a founding Director of Heirs Holdings Limited.
A trained medical doctor, Elumelu holds an MBBS degree from the University of Benin and has practised medicine in both Nigeria and the United Kingdom. Her professional background is complemented by executive education from global institutions, including Harvard Business School, IMD Switzerland and the London School of Economics.
Beyond the corporate sphere, Elumelu is widely recognised for her commitment to social impact. She is a Trustee and Co-Founder of the Tony Elumelu Foundation, Africa’s foremost philanthropy focused on empowering young entrepreneurs. Through the foundation, she has played a key role in advancing gender inclusion and supporting more than 24,000 young Africans with seed capital, training and mentorship.
Commenting on the appointment, Group Chairman of Transcorp Group, Mr. Tony O. Elumelu, said the company was pleased to welcome her as Board Chair.
“We are delighted to welcome Dr. Awele Elumelu as the Board Chair of Transcorp Hotels. Her distinguished track record aligns perfectly with our ambition to redefine hospitality through innovation, wellness integration and responsible business practices,” he said. “Her strategic insight will be invaluable as we continue to enhance guest experiences and deliver sustainable value to our stakeholders.”
