Business
Access Bank’s Africa Trade Conference Ignites New Era of Intra-Africa Commerce
Access Bank Plc has successfully hosted the inaugural Africa Trade Conference in Cape Town, South Africa, bringing together industry leaders, policymakers, and trade experts to drive solutions for accelerating intra-African trade and unlocking the continent’s economic potential.
The conference tackled critical challenges, including limited access to capital, market information gaps, trust deficits between trading partners, and the urgent need for modernised trade infrastructure.
Roosevelt Ogbonna, Managing Director/CEO of Access Bank, delivered the opening remarks, setting the tone for discussions by highlighting the critical barriers hindering trade across Africa. He emphasised the urgent need for financial sector collaboration to facilitate seamless access to capital and foster a business environment where African enterprises can scale and compete globally. “We must invest in the initiatives that ensure that we can bring businesses together, forge trust, and create the connections necessary for trade. In doing so, we must stamp out the narrative that ‘Made in Africa’ is inferior to any product made anywhere else in the world. We must buy Africa, be proud to wear Africa, and invest in Africa because that is what the continent needs to leap forward into the next generation,” Ogbonna stated.
With Africa’s population projected to surge to 2.5 billion by 2050 from 1.2 billion, the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) stands as the most significant free trade initiative since the formation of the World Trade Organisation.
By fostering economic integration, AfCFTA has the potential to reshape trade dynamics across the continent, creating a unified market that enhances industrialization, boosts employment, and strengthens Africa’s global competitiveness.
Recognising this transformative opportunity, H.E. Wamkele K. Mene, Secretary-General of AfCFTA, emphasised the urgency of fully implementing the agreement to unlock its immense benefits.
“The AfCFTA is not just a trade agreement; it is an instrument for Africa’s industrialization and economic sovereignty. It is a tool that will enable us to break down historic trade barriers and build an Africa that is self-sufficient, competitive, and prosperous. But for this to happen, we must commit to operationalising the agreement fully, ensuring that businesses, particularly SMEs and women-led enterprises, have access to the information, capital, and platforms they need to thrive,” Mene stated.
Also, Kanayo Awani, Executive Vice President of Afreximbank, emphasised the importance of financing mechanisms that support African businesses in their expansion across borders.
She reaffirmed Afreximbank’s commitment to championing trade finance solutions and infrastructure investments that will unlock Africa’s trade potential. “At Afreximbank, we understand that trade finance is the lifeblood of economic development. Without it, businesses cannot scale, industries cannot innovate, and Africa cannot fully realise its trade potential. This is why we have developed instruments such as the Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS) to facilitate seamless transactions across borders, reducing reliance on foreign currencies and strengthening intra-African trade,” Awani remarked.
The conference featured an insightful testimonial from Nathalie Louat, Global Director at the IFC/World Bank Group, who pointed out the pivotal role of trade finance in enabling cross-border transactions and supporting financial inclusion. She underscored the long-standing partnership between IFC and Access Bank in fostering Africa’s economic resilience.
Several high-level panel discussions explored strategies to overcome trade barriers and enhance market access through innovative solutions.
Experts from leading institutions, including Deutsche Bank, Traydstream, OWP Partners, Fiducia International, and more, examined how infrastructure improvements, digital solutions, and policy harmonisation could drive economic growth and boost intra-African trade.
Dr. Marc Auboin from the World Trade Organization (WTO) shared key insights on how digital transformation is reshaping Africa’s supply chain landscape, creating efficiency and unlocking new global market opportunities.
Tanya Dos Santos-Ford from GIBS Business School also led a session on sustainable trade practices, emphasising the need for environmentally responsible economic growth strategies.
The event culminated in an awards ceremony recognising outstanding contributions to intra-African trade and economic transformation. Tradepass Commodities Limited (Ghana), Chemaf International FZE (DR Congo), and Harvest Group of Companies (Zambia) were honoured for their impact on SMEs and women-led trade enterprises.
Bulkstream Limited (Kenya) and Electricidade de Moçambique (Mozambique) received awards for advancing intra-African trade, while Tennant Metals South Africa Pty Ltd was recognised as an Emerging Leader in Trade.
The International Finance Corporation (IFC) was awarded the Climate Finance Leadership Award, while Afreximbank received the Champion of Intra-African Trade Award.
The African Development Bank (AfDB) and Africa Finance Corporation (AFC) were celebrated for their roles in economic transformation and infrastructure finance, respectively.
The prestigious African Icon Award was presented to IHS Group, Dangote Industries Limited, and MTN Group Limited for their significant contributions to Africa’s economic progress.
As the conference ended, Seyi Kumapayi, Executive Director, African Subsidiaries at Access Bank, reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to supporting trade finance, fostering regional integration, and championing policies that create an enabling environment for businesses across Africa.
Through a legacy of excellence and Innovation, First Bank of Nigeria Limited, the country’s oldest and most distinguished financial institution, has once again solidified its reputation as a leader in the banking industry. The Bank was recently crowned the Best SME Bank in Nigeria and the Best SME Bank in Africa at the 2025 Asian Bankers Awards for the second year running. The Asian Banker Global Excellence in Retail Finance Awards are renowned for their rigour, prestige and transparency, celebrating excellence across financial services, technology, risk management and transaction finance.
These prestigious recognitions reaffirm FirstBank’s unwavering commitment to Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), a sector that serves as the backbone of Nigeria’s and Africa’s economy. For over a century, First Bank of Nigeria Limited has been instrumental in the nation’s financial evolution, pioneering innovative banking solutions and fostering economic growth.
The awards underscore the efficacy of its strategic focus on empowering SMEs through tailored support programs and an inclusive economic environment where small/medium businesses can thrive and also grow to compete globally. Winning these distinguished awards is no small feat. FirstBank stood out among its competitors across the continent due to several of the Bank’s key initiatives which have effectively transformed the SME banking landscape in all the countries where the bank operates.
Some of the Bank’s Tailored Financial Solutions include customised loans and flexible credit facilities to cater to SMEs at various growth stages. From microloans for startups to large-scale funding for expanding businesses, FirstBank has ensured that small businesses have access to the capital they need to thrive.
The bank’s SMEConnect platform, a digital hub that provides SMEs with access to financial resources, business advisory services, and networking opportunities, has been a game-changer. This initiative has helped thousands of entrepreneurs navigate challenges and scale their operations effectively.
Beyond financial support, FirstBank has invested in entrepreneurship training programs to equip SMEs with knowledge in financial literacy, business management, and technology adoption. Partnerships with organisations like the International Finance Corporation (IFC) and the Nigerian government have further strengthened these initiatives.
Women-Led and Youth Entrepreneurship Support is another tool which he Bank has deployed to its benefit. By recognising the role of women in economic development, the Bank has a dedicated product – FirstGem, which provides financial support to women entrepreneurs. In addition, the Retail Temporary Overdraft (RTOD) product, tailored to SMEs aims to provide financial support for their businesses. These strategic efforts have set FirstBank apart, positioning it as the ‘go-to’ financial partner for SMEs across Africa.
The recognition of FirstBank as the Best SME Bank in Nigeria is not just a win for the Bank but also for the entire Nigerian economy. SMEs account for over 90% of businesses in Nigeria and contribute significantly to employment and GDP. By providing robust financial solutions and business support, FirstBank is fostering job creation, innovation, and sustainable economic growth. With access to better funding, training, and technology, more SMEs can scale their operations beyond local markets and compete on the global stage. This award also highlights Nigeria’s potential as a hub for entrepreneurship and business expansion.
FirstBank’s achievement is expected to set a new benchmark for banking excellence in Africa. Other financial institutions will likely follow suit, improving their SME-focused initiatives, leading to a more vibrant and competitive business environment.
FirstBank will continue to champion SME growth, affirm its legacy as a trusted financial partner whose commitment remains unshaken. This award serves as both recognition of past efforts and a call to push boundaries further in supporting African businesses.
For small business owners, aspiring entrepreneurs, and the Nigerian economy, FirstBank’s success story is a beacon of hope, proving that with the right financial backing, the possibilities are limitless for the average businesses.
For the African continent, First Bank of Nigeria Limited’s win at the Asian Banker Awards for Excellence in Retail Finance Global Award 2025 marks a significant milestone in African banking history. It showcases the Bank’s relentless commitment to empowering SMEs, driving digital transformation, and fostering economic prosperity across the continent. As the Bank continues to innovate and expand its reach, the future for SMEs in Nigeria and Africa looks brighter.
This piece is contributed by Tosin Ajayi
Unity Bank Plc has reaffirmed its commitment to women’s empowerment with a series of high-impact initiatives designed to inspire action toward gender equality and sustainable development.
The Bank hosted a webinar with the theme: “Unleashing Women’s Potential,” pivoted by the Unity Bank Women Network as it was marking this year’s International Women’s Day,
Being one of the Bank’s thought leadership on self-reliance, opportunity and equity, the webinar featured influential female leaders, including Gbemi Olateru-Olagbegi, a Nigerian entrepreneur and media personality, and Oluwabusayo Adegoke, a certified life coach and Strategy Consultant, who shared perspectives on women’s leadership, financial inclusion, and breaking barriers in male-dominated industries. The event provided an opportunity for professionals, entrepreneurs, and young women to gain valuable insights into personal and professional development.
The Bank also spotlighted women making significant contributions to their communities, particularly those driving change through education, mentorship, and financial empowerment. Among them were Abisoye Ajayi-Akinfolarin, a trailblazer empowering girls through technology; Tejumoluwa Olaobaju, an advocate leading the fight against period poverty in her community; and Chioma Ohakwe, a champion of inclusivity and women’s empowerment through targeted skill acquisition programmes for girls and women.
Speaking on the Bank’s commitment to gender equity, Mrs. Particia Ahunanya, Unity Bank’s Chief Compliance Officer and Chair of Unity Bank Women’s Network, stated: “Our commitment to financial inclusion and gender equity has made Unity Bank remain in the vanguard of championing opportunities for empowering women across all sectors. This is in view of the realization that women are crucial drivers of economic growth and societal transformation. Through initiatives like the ‘Unleashing Women’s Potential’ webinar and our community spotlights, the Bank is focused on promoting more initiatives to drive impact among the female gender”.
Unity Bank’s IWD 2025 initiatives align with its broader vision of supporting women in leadership, business, and entrepreneurship. Through gender-focused initiatives – particularly with products like the Yanga Account – the bank is committed to driving financial inclusion and empowering women to actively participate in economic and financial systems. By providing tailored financial solutions, Unity Bank aims to create equal opportunities for women to thrive, grow, and succeed.
As the global conversation on gender equality continues to gain momentum, Unity Bank calls on stakeholders across industries to accelerate actions toward creating a more inclusive society without limitations.
Fidelity Bank Plc has reaffirmed its commitment to financial inclusion, youth empowerment, and promoting a healthy savings culture by rewarding nine National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members with N500,000 business grants each.
The grants were awarded under the Get Alert in Millions Season Six (GAIM 6) promo, an initiative designed to reward loyal customers with cash prizes totaling N159 million. The promo, which runs from November 2024 to August 2025, targets various categories of customers, including NYSC members, students, and general customers.
Mr. Osita Ede, Divisional Head of Product Development at Fidelity Bank Plc, stated that this season of the GAIM promo aims to enhance the opportunities for loyal customers to win.
“When we launched the GAIM 6 promotion in November 2024, we unequivocally stated that this campaign season is intended to promote inclusivity. Consequently, we have increased the total prize money to N159 million and added additional draws, beyond the weekly and monthly draws featured in previous seasons.
“Now, we have specific draws catering to various segments of our customer base including women, students, youth corps members, and traders. It is important to note that these categories of customers also stand the chance to win millions of naira in the monthly and grand draws which we will be hosting till 20 August 2025,” explained Ede.
Nine NYSC customers were selected through a random electronic draw in the first quarter of the GAIM 6 campaign, from various branches nationwide. They are: Oluwatosin Emmanuel Olowolayemo and Ekpeno Aniekan George, both from Uyo 2 Branch; Derryk Chidubem Okafor from Trans-Ekulu Branch; Aliyu Idris Adamu from Tudun-Wada Kaduna Branch; Bomane-Aziba Koromo from Nanka Close, Wuse Branch; Asabe Grace Adamu from University of Maiduguri Branch; David Agbai Agwu from Oshogbo Branch; Abdullahi Opeyemi Olajuwon from Airport Road, Lagos Branch; and Eghosa George Orhue from Ado Ekiti Branch.
Expressing his gratitude and excitement, one of the recipients of the entrepreneurship grant, Chidubem Okafor, appreciated Fidelity Bank for the grant, noting that the funds will enable him to achieve his entrepreneurial dreams.
His words, “At first, I thought it was a scam when they introduced the initiative at our orientation camp, but today, I am truly honored to receive this support from Fidelity Bank. This grant will go a long way in helping me achieve my entrepreneurial dreams, and I promise to make the most of it.”
Similarly, David Agwu, who also emerged a winner in the draw, expressed his surprise at the unexpected win, saying, “When I received the call, I thought it was a prank. I never applied for anything, so it was hard to believe. But when they sent me proof, I realized it was real. I am truly grateful for this opportunity. My plan is to invest the money in vocational training and digital skills development, particularly in fashion and painting in order to establish a sustainable business.”
Beyond the N500,000 entrepreneurship grant, the winners will also enjoy free business advisory and training sessions at the newly launched Fidelity SME Hub, located at 22, Lanre Awolokun Street, Gbagada Phase 2, Lagos.
Ranked among the best banks in Nigeria, Fidelity Bank Plc is a full-fledged Commercial Deposit Money Bank serving over 8.5 million customers through digital banking channels, its 251 business offices in Nigeria and United Kingdom subsidiary, FidBank UK Limited.
The Bank is the recipient of multiple local and international Awards, including the Export Finance Bank of the Year at the 2023 BusinessDay Awards; the Banks and Other Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards; Best Payment Solution Provider Nigeria 2023; and Best SME Bank Nigeria 2022 by the Global Banking and Finance Awards. It was also recognized as the Best Bank for SMEs in Nigeria by the Euromoney Awards for Excellence 2023 and the Best Domestic Private Bank in Nigeria by the Euromoney Global Private Banking Awards 2023.
