Lagos, Nigeria
Company outlines its approach to structured finance, development finance and capital-market growth across Africa
Africa’s economic transformation depends not only on visionary policies but also on financial institutions capable of mobilizing long-term capital for sustainable growth. Among the leaders redefining this landscape is Sonnie Ayere, Group Chief Executive Officer of DLM Capital Group, whose innovative approach to investment banking and development finance is helping reshape Nigeria’s capital markets while expanding access to structured financing across key sectors of the economy.
With more than three decades of international banking and investment experience, Ayere has established himself as one of Africa’s leading financial architects. His career combines global expertise with a deep understanding of Africa’s development needs, enabling him to create financial solutions that bridge the gap between traditional banking and development finance.
Global Experience, African Vision
Ayere’s career began in London’s financial sector, where he held positions with HSBC and NatWest Bank before expanding his experience at Sumitomo Mitsui Bank, BMO Nesbitt Burns, and the International Finance Corporation (IFC), the private sector arm of the World Bank Group. These roles provided extensive exposure to corporate banking, structured finance, investment management, and cross-border transactions across global markets.
This international experience laid the foundation for his vision of building a world-class African financial institution capable of addressing the continent’s infrastructure and investment financing challenges.
Building DLM Capital Group
In 2009, following his leadership role at United Capital (formerly UBA Global Markets), Ayere founded DLM Capital Group with a clear objective: to develop an integrated investment banking platform capable of providing innovative financial solutions for governments, institutions, and businesses.
Today, DLM has evolved into a diversified financial services group offering investment banking, structured finance, asset management, capital market advisory, securities trading, trust services, microfinance, payments, and sustainable finance solutions.
The firm’s integrated structure enables it to support clients throughout the entire investment lifecycle while delivering innovative financing solutions that contribute to economic growth and private sector development.
Driving Innovation in Capital Markets
Under Ayere’s leadership, DLM Capital Group has introduced several groundbreaking financial structures designed to deepen Nigeria’s capital markets.
Among its notable achievements is the successful issuance of the ₦9 billion Series 1 Sovereign Bond-Backed Composite Notes, listed on the FMDQ Exchange under a ₦30 billion programme. The transaction demonstrated DLM’s ability to structure sophisticated investment products that meet international standards while supporting domestic development priorities.
The Group has also pioneered innovative financial solutions such as CERPAC Securities, which introduced the first combined debt and equity issuance from a Special Purpose Vehicle under a single prospectus, and SBCNS, an innovative financial architecture designed to provide investors with enhanced capital protection.
Building on these innovations, DLM is developing the Legacy Shares Principal Return Share Offer Notes (PRSONs), a structured investment programme designed to combine sovereign bond-backed capital preservation, guaranteed income, and long-term equity participation.
These initiatives demonstrate Ayere’s commitment to creating financial products that expand investor confidence while increasing access to long-term capital.
Financing Africa’s Development
Ayere has consistently advocated Development Finance as a catalyst for Africa’s economic transformation.
Rather than relying solely on conventional banking models, he promotes innovative financing structures capable of attracting both domestic and international capital into strategic sectors including infrastructure, renewable energy, affordable housing, agriculture, manufacturing, and technology.
His philosophy centers on creating sustainable financing solutions that generate long-term economic value while supporting national development priorities.
An Integrated Financial Ecosystem
DLM Capital Group operates through a diversified portfolio of specialized businesses, including investment banking, asset management, securities trading, trust services, microfinance, housing finance, recycling, and digital payments.
This integrated ecosystem enables the Group to serve governments, institutional investors, corporations, SMEs, and individuals through comprehensive financial solutions while promoting financial inclusion and sustainable economic development.
Leadership Beyond Finance
Beyond building financial institutions, Ayere is recognized for developing people and strengthening industry capacity.
He actively supports executive education, mentorship, and professional development, sharing insights on corporate governance, financial strategy, capital markets, and economic development with emerging professionals and business leaders.
Within DLM, he has cultivated a culture built on innovation, accountability, continuous learning, and long-term value creation.
Looking Ahead
As Africa’s financial landscape continues to evolve, Ayere remains focused on expanding DLM Capital Group’s footprint across the continent while advancing innovation in structured finance, digital payments, fintech, and sustainable investment.
His vision is centered on strengthening Africa’s capital markets, improving financial inclusion, and creating financing solutions capable of unlocking the continent’s enormous economic potential.
A Lasting Legacy
Sonnie Ayere represents a new generation of African financial leaders transforming the continent through innovation, institution building, and strategic investment.
Through DLM Capital Group, he has demonstrated how financial innovation can drive economic development, strengthen capital markets, and create sustainable opportunities for businesses and communities alike.
As Africa continues its journey toward greater economic integration and global competitiveness, Ayere’s leadership is helping shape a stronger, more resilient financial future for the continent.
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