Business
Access Bank Plc, EIB Partner To Empower SMEs, Women Through €50 Million Facility
Access Bank Plc, EIB Partner To Empower SMEs, Women Through €50 Million Facility
– Deal to provide access to finance for SMEs as an effective means to foster economic diversification and inclusive growth.
– At least 30% of funding will support women-led, women-owned businesses or businesses offering a service or product disproportionally benefiting women.
– The deal supports Nigeria’s national action plan, which targets the empowerment of young people and women in alignment with the EU’s 2021-2027 Nigeria Multi-Annual Indicative Program (MIP).
October 20, 2023: Access Bank Plc and the European Investment Bank (EIB), on Thursday, signed a memorandum of understanding, to deploy the long-term financing of 50 million euros, aimed at boosting the financial inclusion of young people and women in Nigeria.
Held with support from the European Union, the execution will contribute to the progress made towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goal number 5, which targets gender equality and empowerment for all women and girls.
Speaking on Access Bank’s longstanding partnership with the EIB and commitment to sustainable finance, Roosevelt Ogbonna, Group Managing Director, and Chief Executive Officer of Access Bank Plc said:
“Our collaboration with the European Investment Bank underscores our unwavering commitment to fostering job growth, promoting gender equality, and championing sustainable business practices across all our countries of operation. At Access Bank, we believe in the potential of women as drivers of economic growth, and this partnership reinforces our dedication to that cause. By providing critical financial resources to female entrepreneurs and managers, we aim to not only expand businesses but also uplift livelihoods and drive economic development in Nigeria.
“As we work towards achieving the national and global development goals, this credit facility exemplifies the shared vision of Access Bank and EIB for a more inclusive and prosperous continent. We look forward to the positive impact this partnership will have on the lives of Nigerian women and the broader economy.”
The funds will be mobilised by Access Bank to finance eligible investments made by SMEs and mid-caps in sectors such as transport, agriculture value-chain, manufacturing, tourism, and services. It will also be targeting businesses owned, run, employing, or primarily serving women, in accordance with the “2X Challenge” initiative, whose criteria are aligned with the OECD gender objectives.
“Since inception, the goal of the “W” Initiative has been to inspire, connect, and empower women with sustainable tools to access true financial inclusion and growth. This is why we are excited about the potential of this agreement with the EIB, as it is a powerful instrument to support women in realising their dreams and aspirations. By providing increased access to funding, we are fostering economic growth and strengthening the foundation of gender equality in Nigeria,” Abiodun Olubitan, Group Head, Women Banking, Access Bank Plc added.
This execution is testament to Access Bank’s pledge to drive sustainable economic growth that is profitable, environmentally responsible, and socially relevant, while helping customers to access more and achieve their dreams. Over the past 17 years, the Bank has consistently demonstrated its commitment to gender equality and women’s economic empowerment, expending over ₦246.46 billion in financing for 3,145,319 women.
Dr. Ifeoma Eze: The Connection That Transforms Lives
Dr. Ifeoma Eze isn’t just a preacher; she is a voice that awakens purpose, a mentor who nurtures potential, and a guide leading people back to the true source of value—God. With warmth, wisdom, and an undeniable passion for transformation, she delivers a simple yet powerful message: your worth isn’t defined by what you have, but by who you are connected to.
In her inspiring book, Becoming A Person of Exceptional Value, Dr. Eze drives home a truth that is often overlooked: no one can truly thrive in life without being plugged into the ultimate source—God. “We are not just physical beings trying to have a spiritual experience,” she says with conviction. “We are spiritual beings navigating a human journey.”
She takes readers back to the very beginning—Genesis 1:28—where God gave humanity a clear mandate: be fruitful, multiply, replenish the earth, subdue it, and have dominion. “This isn’t just about surviving,” she explains. “It’s about thriving, creating impact, and living a life that truly matters.”
But what happens when people try to go through life disconnected from their source? Dr. Ifeoma paints a vivid picture: “Imagine a strong, well-built water pipe. It looks good, but if it’s not connected to a water supply, it serves no purpose. That’s exactly what happens when we try to succeed without God—we may look promising, but we’ll never truly function as we were meant to.”
She also draws lessons from Jesus’ encounter with the barren fig tree. “Jesus wasn’t upset with the tree for simply existing,” she explains. “He was upset because it gave the appearance of having fruit but had nothing to show for it. And that’s how many people are today—outwardly successful but inwardly empty.”
Dr. Ifeoma Eze’s message is more than just words—it’s a heartfelt call to action. She speaks with the authority of someone who has walked this path, someone who has experienced firsthand what it means to be transformed by divine connection. Her sermons are not just lessons; they are life-changing encounters, filled with energy, encouragement, and practical wisdom.
Through Becoming A Person of Exceptional Value, she challenges people to reconnect with God, to recognize their true worth, and to step boldly into their calling. “You weren’t created to struggle in mediocrity,” she affirms. “You were made to shine, to build, to replenish, and to lead. But first, you must be connected to the One who gives all value.”
Dr. Ifeoma Eze isn’t just teaching people how to live; she’s showing them how to truly thrive. And in a world where so many are searching for meaning, her message couldn’t be more timely.
Business
Ramadan Delight: Enjoy Flexible Payments, Huge Discounts & Exclusive Gifts with Adron Homes
-
Business5 months agoComprehensive Media Audit Shows Flutterwave, MTN Nigeria, and Bolt Outpacing Competitors in Media Engagement
-
Politics6 months agoWhy Ighodalo Slammed ₦20 Billion Suit On Oshiomhole
-
Politics7 months agoCampaign funds: LP Tasks NSA, EFCC to probe Obi, Yesufu, Afenifere
-
Politics6 months agoTogether we can make Ewekoro a better local government’ — Sikiru Adesina Urges Party Leaders, Co-contestants