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In a strategic move aimed at boosting sustainable agricultural business and attracting global investments, Access Bank Plc, one of Nigeria’s leading financial institutions with presence in over 19 countries, has enhanced its Agriculture Desk for improved value for customers and stakeholders at large.
In a statement by the bank, the executive director, Commercial Banking, Hadiza Ambursa, said during a press conference that, “The Agriculture Desk is not only about financing; it’s about driving transformational change within the agricultural landscape. Our commitment extends beyond monetary support to encompass capacity building, technology adoption, and market access for our clients.
“The Agriculture Desk’s impressive track record has been built on partnerships with key stakeholders, including government agencies, international organisations, and industry associations. This collaborative approach has reinforced our reputation as a reliable driver of growth in Nigeria’s agricultural sector.”
The statement further said, ‘‘The bank Access Bank has positively contributed to the nation’s achievement of self-sustained food security. So far, the Bank’s investment in agribusiness is over N200 billion which has benefitted over 10,000 Agribusinesses, across Small Holder Farms (SHFs), Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), organised farmer associations/cooperatives and corporates who are financed under various Bank’s product and Government Schemes. The support for these projects has had impacts such as increase in food security, job creation, growth in customers’ businesses and increased revenue.
‘‘With a steadfast commitment to sustainable agricultural business and strategic stakeholders partnerships, the bank is steering the nation and continent toward greater self-sufficiency and global prominence with several awards to its credits including: 2021 & 2022 Global Brand Magazine Award “Best Agro Banking Brand, 2021 Nigeria Agriculture Award, Agric Bank of the year, 2020 African Banker Awards “Agriculture Deal of the Year, 2019 Central Bank of Nigeria ‘Agricultural Credit Guarantee Scheme’ Award, 2018 & 2019 Central Bank of Nigeria ‘Most Sustainable Bank in Agriculture’ award.
‘‘The advancement positions the bank at the forefront of Nigeria’s agricultural financing market segment to serve and support agri-businesses in Nigeria in line with the CBN’s directive to banks. The Agriculture Desk serves as a specialised unit within the bank, charged with the responsibility of offering financial and advisory services and supports to both prospects and existing players in the Agribusiness value chain. (leadership.ng)
