L-R: Olusanya Olakunle, Director, Fanmilk (Danone); Uhabia Ojike, Guillaume Niarfeix, President Franco-Nigerian Chamber of Commerce and Industry; Denis Martin, Managing Director, CFAO Mobility Nigeria; Muyiwa Akinyemi, Deputy Managing Director, United Bank of Africa; Laurent Favier, Consul General of France in Lagos; Adobi Nwapa, Executive Director, Zenith Bank; and Innocent C. Ike, Group Chief Executive Officer, Access Holdings, at the French Week 2025 Business Forum at Access Towers in Lagos.

The French Week Economic Summit 2025, which   held recently convened senior government officials, business leaders, diplomats, and industry stakeholders with a unified call for stronger bilateral cooperation to advance sustainable economic growth across both nations.

Delivering the welcome remarks, Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, President, France–Nigeria Business Council (FNBC) and Chairman, Access Holdings Plc, stressed the importance of reinforcing commercial ties between France and Nigeria through practical partnerships, strategic investment, and private-sector leadership.

The Summit, now in its third consecutive year at Access Towers, head office of Access Bank, was convened under the theme: “France–Nigeria Commercial Relations: Leveraging Partnership for Growth.”

Represented by Innocent Ike, Group Chief Executive Officer, Access Holdings, Aig-Imoukhuede, noted that the Summit reflected the progress envisioned when President Emmanuel Macron inaugurated the France–Nigeria Business Council in 2019 to foster practical, private-sector–led cooperation.

According to him, the FNBC has since evolved into a key platform for deepening partnerships across energy, infrastructure, finance, and culture, driven by shared values of innovation, sustainability, and inclusion.

Aig-Imoukhuede highlighted major ongoing bilateral projects, including the AGORA Project, a joint France–Africa initiative aimed at reimagining urban sustainability through green mobility, environmentally conscious infrastructure, and digital ecosystem integration.

He also presented updates on the Omi Eko Initiative, a collaboration between the Lagos State Government, French technical partners, and Nigerian private-sector institutions designed to restore and sustainably manage the Lagos Lagoon.

The initiative is projected to cut carbon emissions by 31,000 tons of CO₂ annually, mobilise over €60 million (₦100 billion) in green-infrastructure investments, and create more than 2,000 jobs across recycling, renewable energy, and sustainable tourism. He noted that Omi Eko illustrates how environmental restoration can serve as a catalyst for broad-based economic opportunity.

In her remarks, the Lagos State Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade, and Investment, Folashade Ambrose-Medebem, announced a major development for the state’s economic landscape: The emergence of the Lagos International Financial Centre (LIFC).

Designed to attract global financial institutions, drive foreign investment, and promote financial innovation, the Commissioner described the LIFC as a transformative platform.

“It will serve as a strong platform for global investors, innovators, and businesses to converge,” Ambrose-Medebem said. “Watch this space: by the time you return next year, I hope to share more about its formal launch and milestones achieved.”

She explained that the Summit provides a robust avenue for high-level dialogue, reinforcing the commitment of both nations to fostering cross-investment, creating bankable projects, and driving shared, sustainable growth.

This commitment is reflected in recent initiatives such as the Omi Eko Project, a €410 million Lagos State effort to modernise the city’s water transportation system through a network of safe, environmentally friendly, and efficient electric ferries.

Aig-Imoukhuede also underscored the potential of the creative sector as a strategic growth industry for France and Nigeria. He referenced ongoing cultural collaborations, including Creation Africa and the Tate Modern “Nigeria Modernism” Exhibition, that continue to elevate Nigerian creativity on the global stage. He urged investors and financial institutions to view the creative economy as both a viable export industry and a key driver of national identity and influence.

Addressing global climate transitions, Aig-Imoukhuede emphasised the need for expanded collaboration in renewable energy. He noted that France’s leadership in green technology, paired with Nigeria’s abundant natural resources, positions both nations for impactful joint investments in solar, hydro, wind, and cleaner gas solutions.

He encouraged Summit participants to move beyond dialogue and deliver measurable milestones and sustainable outcomes that benefit both countries.

Aig-Imoukhuede reaffirmed the commitment of the FNBC, the Franco–Nigerian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and Access Holdings Plc to fostering deeper commercial ties and long-term economic cooperation between France and Nigeria.

He expressed confidence that the Summit would catalyse stronger partnerships, increased investments, and shared prosperity.

Across Africa, women are fast becoming the heartbeat of economic transformation. From bustling open-air markets to high-tech boardrooms, women-led enterprises are redefining what is possible for the continent’s future.

Whether as market traders expanding their reach through digital platforms, tech founders scaling innovations across borders, or artisans turning local crafts into global brands, women’s contributions are now central to Africa’s economic resurgence.

Even as they break new ground, many still face formidable barriers. Access to finance, mentorship, business education, and supportive networks remains limited.

Structural issues such as weak property rights, gender bias, and inadequate legal protections often hinder women from securing loans or expanding their businesses. Consequently, many women-owned ventures remain small, informal, and vulnerable to economic shocks.

Recognising both the promise and the obstacles, Access Bank has positioned itself at the forefront of empowering women across the continent. Recently named Africa’s Best Financier for Female Entrepreneurs by the EMEA Finance Awards, the Bank has earned global recognition for its commitment to inclusion, innovation, and sustainable impact.

At the centre of this effort is the W Initiative, one of Africa’s most comprehensive women-focused banking programmes. Unlike conventional banking, it combines finance with mentorship, training, and community support, acknowledging that true empowerment requires more than access to capital.

The initiative meets women wherever they are on their entrepreneurial journey, from start-ups to growing enterprises and corporate leadership.

The W Power Loan offers affordable credit with flexible terms, enabling women to invest in expansion, inventory, or technology.

The W Academy provides leadership and business training on financial literacy, marketing, and regulatory compliance, while the W Community connects women to peers, mentors, and role models across industries.

Importantly, these offerings extend beyond urban centres. From microloans sustaining traders in rural markets to leadership programmes developing female executives in multinational firms, Access Bank’s approach is deliberately inclusive.

By partnering NGOs, business associations, and government agencies, it reaches women in underserved communities, ensuring participation in Africa’s economic rise.

The results are evident. Thousands of women have accessed credit, training, and networks through the Bank’s initiatives, enabling them to launch and scale businesses, create jobs, and uplift their communities. The ripple effects are far-reaching: increased household income, improved family wellbeing, and greater economic resilience. Women who once faced daunting barriers now serve as role models and change-makers, inspiring others to follow their path.

Studies show that when women thrive, societies prosper. The World Bank and African Development Bank note that empowering women fuels GDP growth, improves health outcomes, and enhances social stability. By directly addressing structural gaps in access to finance and information, Access Bank helps to unlock this transformative potential.

Apart from supporting entrepreneurs, Access Bank promotes gender inclusion within its own organisation. Its leadership pipeline identifies and advances talented women, while mentorship and wellness programmes help female professionals thrive.

The Bank also uses public platforms, from conferences to policy dialogues, to share success stories and advocate for gender diversity across sectors.

The EMEA Finance recognition thus goes beyond trophies and titles; it affirms that profitability and purpose can coexist. For Access Bank, supporting women’s advancement is smart economics. By embedding inclusion into its DNA, the Bank is shaping a financial ecosystem that views women as equal partners in progress.

Access Bank’s influence also extends into advocacy. Through forums, roundtables, and research collaborations, the Bank engages policymakers, civil society, and business leaders to identify and dismantle barriers facing women entrepreneurs. Its campaigns amplify women’s voices, spotlighting their achievements and driving conversations around inclusive growth.

Fidelity Bank Plc has announced its audited financial results for the half-year ended 30 June 2025, demonstrating resilience and sustained growth across key performance indicators.

Highlights of the financial results which was uploaded on the Nigerian Exchange (NGX) portal on Thursday, November 13, 2025 shows that the bank delivered robust results across key financial metrics including Gross Earnings, which stood at ₦748.7 billion, up from ₦512.9 billion in H1 2024; Net Interest Income, which rose to ₦420.4 billion, compared to ₦326.4 billion in H1 2024; and Customer Deposits, which grew to ₦7.2 trillion, from ₦5.9 trillion in FY 2024.

Similarly, the bank’s Net Revenue increased to ₦444.4 billion, compared to ₦396.8 billion in H1 2024.

Fidelity Bank continued to expand its digital banking footprint, enhance customer experience, and support key sectors of the economy.

The bank’s loan book grew, with Net Loans and Advances expanding to ₦4.9 trillion, up from ₦4.4 trillion in FY 2024, reflecting increased support for businesses and individuals. Asset quality remained stable, with non-performing loans well within acceptable limits.

The bank’s capital raising initiatives have further strengthened its financial position, ensuring readiness to meet new regulatory requirements and pursue growth opportunities. Fidelity Bank’s strong liquidity profile and robust governance framework provide a solid foundation for continued success.

Ranked among the best banks in Nigeria, Fidelity Bank Plc is a full-fledged Commercial Deposit Money Bank serving over 9.1 million customers through digital banking channels, its 255 business offices in Nigeria and United Kingdom subsidiary, FidBank UK Limited.

The Bank is a recipient of multiple local and international Awards, including the 2024 Excellence in Digital Transformation & MSME Banking Award by BusinessDay Banks and Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards; the 2024 Most Innovative Mobile Banking Application award for its Fidelity Mobile App by Global Business Outlook, and the 2024 Most Innovative Investment Banking Service Provider award by Global Brands Magazine.

Additionally, the Bank was recognised as the Best Bank for SMEs in Nigeria by the Euromoney Awards for Excellence and as the Export Financing Bank of the Year by the BusinessDay Banks and Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards.

L-R: Ladi Ene Garba, Head, Commercial Banking, Polaris Bank; Njideka Nwabueze, Head, Retail Banking, Polaris Bank; Abubakar Usman Bello, the Executive Director, North & Public Sector, Keystone Bank and Mathew Oji, Product Strategy, Polaris Bank at the MSME Digital Bank award ceremony in Lagos recently.

Polaris Bank has once again reaffirmed its leadership in digital innovation and inclusive banking, emerging as the MSME Digital Bank of the Year (Inclusive Growth) at the second edition of the MSME Finance & CEO Awards held recently in Lagos.

The event, organised by the Africa Global Economic Forum BBBin partnership with PROSHARE, recognised outstanding institutions and other notable stakeholders driving MSME development and financial inclusion across Nigeria.

The award celebrates Polaris Bank’s unwavering commitment to empowering small and medium-scale enterprises through technology-driven financial solutions, notably its flagship digital banking platform, VULTe.

In the last few years, VULTe has revolutionised how MSMEs access finance by providing seamless, self-service banking and loan solutions — a reflection of the Bank’s mission to bridge financial access gaps and foster entrepreneurship nationwide.

This latest honour comes on the heels of VULTe’s recent win as “Digital Bank of the Year” and the Best MSME support Bank for the record fifth consecutive time at the 2025 BusinessDay Banks and Other Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards, underscoring Polaris Bank’s consistent digital excellence and customer-centric innovation.

Speaking on the award, Polaris Bank’s Managing Director/CEO, Mr. Kayode Lawal, noted that the recognition reinforces the Bank’s strategic focus on inclusive growth and digital transformation.

“We are committed to building a future where technology and innovation empower businesses and individuals, particularly MSMEs, to thrive in the digital economy,” he said.

With a growing footprint in digital banking and sustainable finance, Polaris Bank continues to demonstrate leadership in enabling access to financial services that drive entrepreneurship, job creation, and national economic growth.

L-R: Proprietor, Part of Solution School, Makoko, Prince Shemede Taiwo; Team Lead, CSR, Fidelity Bank Plc, Victoria Abuka; Traditional Leader of Makoko Community, Shemede Emmanuel Ajaka; Head, HR Business Partnerships & Communication, Fidelity Bank Plc, Nwamaka Kalu; and Class Governor, Achievers’ Inductees Class, Fidelity Bank Plc, Oluwabusayo Obagunwa, during the Fidelity Helping Hands Program (FHHP) outreach and donation of food items and other relief materials to residents of Makoko, Lagos.

In a demonstration of its commitment to corporate social responsibility, leading financial institution, Fidelity Bank Plc, has extended support to residents of the Makoko waterfront community in Lagos with the donation of boats, educational materials, food items and other essential relief items.

The donation was championed by the Achievers Inductees Class of 2025 under the Fidelity Helping Hands Programme (FHHP), the bank’s staff-led CSR initiative where members of staff identify areas of critical interventions in their communities, raise funds and receive matching support from the bank’s management to execute the projects.

Speaking on the donation, Divisional Head, Brand and Communications, Fidelity Bank Plc, Dr. Meksley Nwagboh, reaffirmed the bank’s dedication to supporting communities and fostering sustainable development.

“At Fidelity Bank, we believe that when communities thrive, businesses prosper. Our commitment goes beyond banking, it is about improving lives, supporting education, and creating opportunities for growth. This donation reflects our dedication to nurturing the next generation and contributing to a better, more sustainable future,” He stated.

Expressing appreciation on behalf of the community, the traditional leader of Makoko, Baale Shemede Emmanuel Ajakaekun, commended Fidelity Bank for its compassionate donation.

“We are grateful that Fidelity Bank came down here to support us. May their work continue to flourish, and may God lift them higher. We hope they will not forget us but come back again to support our people,” he said.

Similarly, the Proprietor, Part of Solution Orphanage, Nursery and Primary School, Shemede Taiwo, described the donation as life-changing for the children and residents.

“Many children here struggle to attend school because boats are expensive to build or hire. Fidelity Bank’s donation will make a huge difference in ensuring our children get to school safely and in ensuring the improved welfare of the residents of this community. We truly appreciate this gesture,” Shemede Taiwo said.

Through the Fidelity Helping Hands Programme (FHHP), the bank continues to empower communities across Nigeria by addressing key social issues in education, health, and welfare. The Makoko outreach comes off the back of a similar FHHP outreach to Old People’s Home in Yaba, Lagos, reaffirming Fidelity Bank’s commitment to the sustainable development that begins with genuine care for people and their environment.

Ranked among the best banks in Nigeria, Fidelity Bank Plc is a full-fledged Commercial Deposit Money Bank serving over 9.1 million customers through digital banking channels, its 255 business offices in Nigeria and United Kingdom subsidiary, FidBank UK Limited.

The Bank is a recipient of multiple local and international Awards, including the 2024 Excellence in Digital Transformation & MSME Banking Award by BusinessDay Banks and Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards; the 2024 Most Innovative Mobile Banking Application award for its Fidelity Mobile App by Global Business Outlook, and the 2024 Most Innovative Investment Banking Service Provider award by Global Brands Magazine.

Additionally, the Bank was recognised as the Best Bank for SMEs in Nigeria by the Euromoney Awards for Excellence and as the Export Financing Bank of the Year by the BusinessDay Banks and Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards.

By Abimbola Adegbite

In a developing economy such as Nigeria, sustainable economic growth is usually anchored on domestic policy initiatives driven by the government and the Organised Private Sector (OPS).

The OPS, which includes MSMEs, represent the bedrock of national economic growth. In that regard, they enjoy considerable recognition from the government and financial institutions as engines of business and economic development.

However, businesses, both local and foreign, encounter challenges when obtaining financing. Small, medium-sized and even commercial enterprises can be affected by this. A central challenge in this arena is assessing credit risk, which is crucial to lending decisions.

Understanding Credit Risk: A Critical Component of Decision-Making

Credit risk is the potential that a borrower may fail to meet their financial obligations, an essential consideration that banks must carefully evaluate before extending credit.

For financial institutions, credit risk assessment involves a sophisticated blend of advanced technology and human expertise. This comprehensive system assesses factors such as a borrower’s economic health, business model, and market conditions, enabling more informed lending decisions.

In essence, credit analysts are integral to this assessment process. They conduct rigorous evaluations that encompass quantitative data and qualitative insights for each business. Such holistic analyses are crucial for identifying viable initiatives and ensuring that loans are granted based on sound principles.

Analysts consider industry trends, historical performance, potential growth trajectories, and economic forecasts to build an accurate picture of a borrower’s creditworthiness.

High-quality credit assessments serve multiple functions beyond merely providing risk mitigation for banks. They also enhance the confidence of local entrepreneurs seeking financial support.

When banks offer reliable creditworthiness evaluations, it fosters trust in the lending process, which is vital for enabling SMEs to secure the financial backing they need to grow and innovate. This means that a well-structured credit assessment can also identify exceptional businesses that might otherwise be overlooked, creating opportunities in segments previously considered too risky.

Reputation and Capabilities: Key Factors for Lenders

In addition to credit risk, lenders are increasingly scrutinising borrowers’ reputations and operational capabilities in lending decisions.

Banks must assess the track records of businesses applying for loans, examining factors such as financial management practices, the quality of their products or services, and their commitment to fulfilling contractual obligations.

A solid history of timely repayments, robust financial controls, and a transparent operational structure can greatly enhance a company’s chances of securing funding. 

Current Landscape of Non-Performing Loans in Nigeria

Recent Q3 2025 reports indicate stabilisation and improvements in non-performing loans (NPLs) across several Nigerian banks, driven by enhanced recovery initiatives, regulatory reclassifications, and proactive provisioning. While economic pressures such as inflation and FX volatility persist, these developments underscore the importance of robust credit risk management. Notable banks with updated NPL metrics include:

Access Bank: Recorded an NPL ratio of approximately 2.8% in its Q3 2025 financial report, demonstrating superior asset quality and leadership among Tier-1 peers through aggressive loan recoveries and strong coverage.

Zenith Bank: Reported NPLs of around 3.0%, marking a continued decline from prior periods via write-offs and portfolio monitoring, supporting sustained profitability with a ROAE above 25%.

First Bank of Nigeria: Saw its NPL ratio improve to approximately 8.5%, a reduction from earlier highs. However, it remains elevated and highlights the need for ongoing enhancements in risk frameworks and impairment strategies.

Guaranty Trust Bank: Noted an NPL ratio of 4.5%, reflecting positive momentum with improved coverage at 146.9%, even as the loan book expanded 20.5% to N3.36tn.

United Bank for Africa (UBA): Reported NPLs of about 5.6%, maintaining stability amid 10% loan growth and economic headwinds, with coverage at around 58% bolstering resilience.

Ecobank Nigeria: Experienced an NPL ratio of around 5.3% at the group level (proxy for Nigeria operations), benefiting from remediation programs that reduced ratios from 6.7% in December 2024.

Stanbic IBTC Bank: Recorded an NPL ratio of approximately 4.2% in its H1 2025 financial report, with a management target below 5% for the full year, supported by effective write-backs and resilient asset quality amid strong profit growth.

The stabilising NPL landscape across these institutions points to a maturing banking sector response to challenges, with the average NPL rate across Nigerian banks estimated at around 5.0% as of Q3 2025. This progress reinforces the critical role of effective credit risk assessment strategies in maintaining financial stability and fostering long-term economic growth.

While 11 banks exceeded the 5% threshold in April 2025 (pushing the industry average to 5.62%), subsequent reports show stabilisation or declines, with IMF projections at 4.5% (expected to rise modestly). High impairment charges (N1.96tn across the top 8 banks in 9M 2025) signal caution, but effective risk management has mitigated systemic risks.

Rigorous due diligence and “enhanced credit assessments” remain vital, especially for outliers like FirstBank, Access Bank, Uba, and others, but the sector’s average stability (projected ~3.8-4.5% for full-year 2025) suggests improved resilience.

Broader Impacts: Creating a Supportive Ecosystem

In light of this context, the commitment to provide financing for businesses, especially SMEs and local businesses, accelerates local production and boosts home-grown products and services; thereby contributing to the drive for ‘Made in Nigeria’ products – a crucial stimulant for the Nigerian economy. Financial institutions are increasingly aware that supporting local businesses can yield significant economic benefits while ensuring a more robust and resilient banking environment.

By dedicating resources to encourage sustainable lending practices, banks can foster innovation and growth among local businesses.

Ultimately, a supportive ecosystem for local businesses, characterised by adequate financing and a commitment to community development, is essential for the overall growth of the economy.

As banks navigate the challenges of credit risk assessment, their efforts not only help to sustain individual enterprises but also contribute to the long-term health and prosperity of the national economy.

Stanbic IBTC Holdings, a member of Standard Bank Group, is set to reach a significant milestone as it prepares to increase the number of beneficiaries through its flagship Corporate Social Investment initiative, Together4ALimb.

Since its inception in 2015, the initiative has transformed the lives of children across Nigeria by providing prosthetic limbs and educational support to underserved children aged 0 to 18 years, who are living with limb loss due to various circumstances, including accidents, medical conditions, and congenital disabilities. This year, 64 new beneficiaries will join the programme, bringing the total number of children supported to 200. Each beneficiary will receive a custom-fitted prosthetic limb and an education trust valued at N1.5 million to support their schooling and facilitate their academic aspirations.

Stanbic IBTC invites customers and members of the public to show their support by downloading the Steps by Stanbic IBTC App on the Google Play Store or iOS App Store and walking in solidarity with the children.

Through virtual participation, supporters can join the movement from anywhere in the world; and each step taken will help amplify the awareness about living with limb loss and the need for inclusion.

Together4ALimb continues to remain a powerful symbol of compassion, inclusion, and solidarity. The annual walk, scheduled for 15 November 2025, will bring together Stanbic IBTC staff, beneficiaries and their guardians, as well as key stakeholders who will walk in Victoria Island.

The event serves to raise awareness about limb loss and celebrate the resilience of children whose stories continue to inspire communities across Nigeria.

Speaking on the upcoming milestone, Chuma Nwokocha, Chief Executive, Stanbic IBTC Holdings, said: “We are not just fitting limbs for underserved children living with limb loss; we are also enabling futures. Our Together4ALimb initiative reflects our belief that every child deserves an equal chance to live fully and pursue their dreams. This belief is critical as we raise more awareness for the plight of our beneficiaries; especially in the communities we operate in”.

Wole Adeniyi, Chief Executive, Stanbic IBTC Bank, added: “Together4ALimb embodies our shared humanity. As we walk with the children who will continue to receive our support until they attain the age of 18 years, we are reminded of the power of collective compassion and the impact of consistent support.”

Beyond restoring mobility, the initiative gives children access to quality education and an opportunity to build a brighter, more secure future for themselves and their families. The programme’s holistic approach addresses both the physical and educational needs of vulnerable children, positioning them for long-term success.

Stanbic IBTC’s Together4ALimb continues to exemplify Stanbic IBTC’s deeply held belief that every child deserves the chance to move freely, learn confidently, and dream without limits. As the initiative reaches this 200th beneficiary milestone, Stanbic IBTC remains committed to expanding its impact and touching even more lives in the years ahead.