About Book 

“MY LONG DISTANCE RUN: A Legacy of Grace” is far from just another book; it is an unforgettable journey that will redefine your understanding of banking, ambition, power, intrigue, and the true cost of success. The author, Nnamdi Okonkwo, doesn’t simply share his personal journey—he imparts invaluable lessons and profound insights about the banking profession, delivering wisdom that goes far beyond what any classroom professor can provide.

These timeless and definitive insights—brimming with intelligence, wit, and captivating storytelling—capture over 35 years in a civilisation as unpredictably harsh as it is thrilling, offering a rare glimpse into the true heart of the banking profession, a dimension still largely unexplored. However, fueled by determination, resilience, and an unwavering work ethic, Nnamdi’s swift rise through the banking ranks is a riveting narrative of tenacity, courage, and extraordinary self-transformation. From deftly navigating cutthroat boardroom politics to overcoming betrayals and fierce power struggles, Nnamdi didn’t just endure—he flourished.

In this unflinchingly honest and riveting memoir, the author lays bare the high-stakes, perilous world of banking—revealing profound leadership lessons, practical survival tactics, and the fearless determination needed to thrive in an environment that feels overwhelmingly stacked against you. For anyone who has ever doubted the possibility of untainted success amid corruption, betrayal, and seemingly insurmountable challenges, this book delivers hope and inspiration. It is a must-read for ambitious leaders, mid-career professionals, accomplished managers, and those bold enough to defy convention, carve their own path, and lead with courage.

About Book

Nnamdi Okonkwo is a focused, results-oriented banking executive with a 34-year unbroken banking career spanning local and international experience. He served as CEO three times at different banks—UBA (Ghana), Fidelity Bank Plc (Nigeria), and, most recently, as Group Managing Director of First Holdco Plc (parent company of First Bank of Nigeria), where he served for 3 years having attained the retirement age of 60.

Nnamdi led the transformation of banks, with the most recent at Fidelity Bank, where he served as Chief Executive Officer for 7 years. Under his leadership, the bank achieved results that culminated ina threefold increase in profits and shareholder value. Guided by the principle “Do well, do good,” he drove significant, life-transforming investments in Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) through the Fidelity Helping Hands program and played a major role in developmental finance, with a focus on SMEs, agriculture, value chains, and manufacturing.

He holds a B.Agric from the University of Benin, Nigeria (1984–1989); an MBA from Enugu State University, Nigeria (1998–2000); and executive education at INSEAD, Fontainebleau, France (2008), Harvard, Stanford, Oxford, Wharton Business School, and Northwestern kellog.

Nnamdi Okonkwo is a consummate and dedicated family man who believes strong nuclear families contribute to a better world.