Interswitch CEO among nine-member EY global jury

Mitchell Elegbe, the Founder and Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Interswitch Group, has once again been selected as the sole African entrepreneur to serve on the global jury for the 2026 Ernst & Young (EY) World Entrepreneur of the Year Awards. This marks his third consecutive year on the prestigious judging panel, following his initial appointment in 2024.

The annual awards ceremony, held in Monte Carlo, Monaco, celebrates outstanding entrepreneurial achievements globally. EY highlighted that its Entrepreneur of the Year program has recognized over 10,000 entrepreneurs since 1986 for their vision, innovation, and leadership in building successful businesses that impact local communities and global markets. Elegbe's inclusion underscores his significant standing in the international entrepreneurial community.

Elegbe holds a unique distinction in the awards' 40-year history, being the only black African global finalist and Hall of Fame inductee. He is also the only entrepreneur to have won in both the emerging and master categories at the regional West Africa level. His re-appointment to the nine-member global jury, which includes entrepreneurs from Australia, Brazil, Germany, Hong Kong, Singapore, the United Kingdom, and the United States, further solidifies his influence. Elegbe is widely acknowledged for his pivotal role in Nigeria's payment innovation sector and his contributions to advancing financial technology infrastructure across Africa through Interswitch.

“

The programme has recognised more than 10,000 outstanding entrepreneurs for their vision, innovation, courage, and leadership in building and growing successful businesses, businesses that influence the way people live, the products and services we depend on, and the economic vibrancy of our local communities and global markets.