OpenAI Appoints Nigeria’s Adebayo Ogunlesi to Board of Directors, Emphasizing AI Infrastructure Growth

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OpenAI has announced the appointment of Adebayo Ogunlesi, a senior managing director at BlackRock Inc., to its board of directors. The move underscores the company’s focus on expanding its data centers and energy resources to support the growing demands of artificial intelligence development.

Ogunlesi, a highly respected figure in global finance, joined BlackRock last year following the acquisition of his firm, Global Infrastructure Partners (GIP), in a $12 billion deal. This transaction not only solidified his status as a leader in infrastructure investment but also elevated him to billionaire status.

In a statement released on Tuesday, OpenAI highlighted Ogunlesi’s extensive experience in corporate finance and infrastructure investment. “We’re pleased to announce Adebayo ‘Bayo’ Ogunlesi has joined our Board of Directors. His deep leadership expertise across corporate finance, infrastructure investment, and global market strategy will be invaluable as we navigate the global transformation of AI infrastructure, drive innovation, and foster economic growth,” the statement read.OpenAI Appoints Nigeria’s Adebayo Ogunlesi to Board of Directors, Emphasizing AI Infrastructure Growth

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Ogunlesi’s tenure as the founding partner, chairman, and CEO of GIP has established him as a pivotal player in the infrastructure sector. His knowledge is expected to complement OpenAI’s board, which already includes experts in AI safety, cybersecurity, regulatory affairs, and governance.

OpenAI emphasized that Ogunlesi’s appointment strengthens its ability to oversee advancements in artificial general intelligence (AGI) while maintaining a focus on innovation and global economic impact. The company has been scaling its AI operations, requiring significant investment in energy and infrastructure to support its ambitious goals.

The decision to bring Ogunlesi on board reflects OpenAI’s commitment to leveraging world-class expertise to address the complexities of AI infrastructure. As AI continues to reshape industries worldwide, his insights will play a crucial role in guiding the company through this transformative era.

This appointment positions OpenAI to better align its technological ambitions with the infrastructure and financial strategies needed to sustain its rapid growth and global impact.

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