Queen Elizabeth II honors 66-year-old British-Nigerian man Kenneth Olisa as new knight of England (Details, pics)

A British-Nigerian man identified as Kenneth Olisa has been appointed as a knight by Queen Elizabeth II.

The man who recently became the new chairman of Interswitch was the first black Lord-Lieutenant of Greater London appointed by the queen in 2015.It was gathered that Olisa was honoured with knighthood for his services to business and philanthropy in the 2018 New Year’s Honours. Olisa is a businessman with a career in technology for over 40 years.

The 66-year-old man’s technology career began at International Business Machines (IBM). He also founded and led the technology merchant bank, Interregnum. He is the current director of Thomson Reuters.

Mitchell Elegbe, the chief executive officer of Interswitch congratulated Olisa on his new appointment. He also outlined some of the 66-year-old man’s contributions to the society.

Elegbe said:"Sir Ken has distinguished himself in professional and social spheres with a remarkable pedigree of service in the public domain. A leading light and embodiment of the maxim, 'Do well, and do good.

He has not only charted an impressive course across the business terrain, but has also done notable social good; actively championing, and investing in many charities and non-profit organizations which work to mitigate the disadvantages faced by so many in his society.

We are extremely proud of this most recent recognition and knighthood by the Queen for his services, and it is a great way to start the New Year, both for Sir Ken and for Interswitch."

Kenneth Okolie was born in 1951 to a Nigerian father and a British mother. His career in technology began in 1970s at IBM after he won a scholarship while he was studying natural sciences at the University of Cambridge. He also studied social, political and management sciences at Fitzwilliam College.