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Tag: Access Bank

  • Access Bank rolls out DiamondXtra Season 17

    Access Bank rolls out DiamondXtra Season 17

    Access Bank has formally launched 17th season of its flagship loyalty reward scheme, DiamondXtra, under which customers are expected to win prizes worth more than N200 million.

    To mark the launch, the bank rewarded 165 customers with cash prizes ranging from N5,000 to N100,000 in onsite draws held at the Lagos Trade Fair Complex in Lagos.

    DiamondXtra is a hybrid account that merges the benefits of both savings and current accounts. It allows customers to earn interest on deposits while maintaining full transactional functionality.

    Unit Head, Consumer Banking, Access Bank, Adaeze Umeh, said the launch of the new season underscored the bank’s renewed promise to transform lives and deepen financial inclusion across Nigeria.

    She noted that what sets DiamondXtra account apart is its unique reward mechanism, with customers automatically qualify for periodic draws that offer life-changing prizes.

    According to her, one of the major highlights of the new season is the return of the ‘Salary for Life’ initiative, a beloved feature of past seasons. Under this offer, selected winners will receive N200,000 every month for 15 years, amounting to a total benefit of N36 million per winner.

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    “We are excited to bring back ‘Salary for Life’ in response to customer demand. Winners will receive N200, 000 monthly for the next 15 years.

    In addition, this year we are introducing digital cluster draws through the Access More app. Customers can generate a referral code and share it with family and friends. Once a group of 50 qualifies, they’ll stand a chance to win N100,000 as a group,” Umeh said.

    She added that of the 150 digital clusters planned for the season, 30 will be dedicated exclusively to women—a deliberate move to support the bank’s growing ‘W’ community, which focuses on empowering women through access to finance and opportunities.

    She noted that customer feedback played a pivotal role in shaping this year’s prize offerings as Access Bank routinely polls customers to determine the rewards they prefer.

    She said: “The last time they asked for ‘Salary for Life’ was in 2019. Last year, they opted for cars, and we gave out cars. This year, about 40 percent of customers voted for ‘Salary for Life’, and we listened”.

    She further explained that three winners would be selected for the salary reward each quarter.

    “So far, 131 customers have won ‘Salary for Life’ in previous seasons. These new winners will be joining that exclusive community. We are significantly expanding the scope of rewards this season—from 4,000 winners in Season 16 to a target of 12,000 winners this year with a total sum of N228.7m. That’s three times the number, and it reflects our commitment to mass-market inclusion and social impact,” Umeh said.

    She explained that DiamondXtra now boasts over five million account holders, with the bank aiming to onboard at least one million more by the end of 2025.

    “Our target is not just numbers. We want every new and existing customer to experience excellent service, whether in person or digitally. With DiamondXtra, they enjoy interest, convenient banking, and life-changing rewards,” Umeh said.

    Regional Sales Director, Access Bank, Olukemi Olayinka, emphasized the far-reaching impact of the initiative.

     “We are thrilled that 165 customers walked away with rewards today, including five individuals who won N100,000 each. Over 33,000 families have benefitted from DiamondXtra since inception. This is about making a difference.

    “Beyond individual rewards, DiamondXtra is also helping entrepreneurs. The scheme now extends support to small and medium-scale enterprises (SMEs) through business training, mentoring, and collateral-free loans.

     “It’s more than just savings. We provide up to ₦10 million in loans based on turnover, without requiring collateral. We guide customers through business challenges, offering the kind of support that ensures sustainability,” Olayinka said.

    She added that the bank’s continuous reward programme also plays a role in driving financial inclusion.

    She said: “Many people are joining the formal banking system for the first time because of DiamondXtra. We’ve acquired thousands of new accounts through this initiative, while also keeping our existing customers actively engaged. To join the winning train and stand a chance to win our mouth-watering cash prizes this season, simply dial *901*5# or walk into any of our branches nationwide to open a DiamondXtra account with a minimum of N5,000. Remember, the more you save, the more chances of you winning in the monthly, quarterly or cluster draws”.

    She noted that DiamondXtra continues to be rolled out across key regions in Nigeria, including Lagos, Abuja, the South-West, and North-Central, making it one of the country’s most far-reaching financial reward programmes.

    She reiterated that Access Bank would continue to innovate around financial products with social impact, pointing out that DiamondXtra will continue to stand out as a blueprint for combining banking with purpose, reinforcing the institution’s overarching goal of improving lives and communities across Africa.

  • Lagos community gets free health outreach from Hacey, Access Bank

    Lagos community gets free health outreach from Hacey, Access Bank

    HACEY, in collaboration with Access Bank, organised a Free Community Health Outreach aimed at improving healthcare access for residents of Lakuwe in Ibeju Lekki, Lagos State.

    This initiative, titled “Access Free Community Health Outreach,” highlights a shared commitment to promoting health equity and enhancing the well-being of underserved communities.

    The outreach offers a comprehensive range of health services, including free medical check-ups, health consultations, wellness education, and screenings.

    The initiative not only addresses the pressing healthcare needs of the Ibeju Lekki community but also represents a proactive step toward fostering a healthier population.

    According to the organisers, by providing these essential services at no cost, the initiative aims to remove barriers to healthcare access and improve overall community health outcomes.

    Taiwo Adu, Team Lead, Sustainable Finance Team at Access Bank Plc, said: ‘’Today’s medical outreach is a direct reflection of this commitment.

    ‘’By supporting healthcare access for underserved communities, we are not only addressing immediate medical needs but also contributing to the broader Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 3—Good Health and Well-being.

    ‘’This initiative also aligns with our efforts in sustainable finance, where we support health infrastructure, invest in clean energy for hospitals, and partner with institutions to scale impactful interventions.

    ‘’Whether it’s through our Solar for Health initiative, green financing products, or our partnerships with health-focused NGOs, Access Bank remains committed to driving positive change at the intersection of finance, health, and sustainability.”

    In the same vein, Bamidele Oyewumi, Program Team Lead at HACEY, said: “Access to quality healthcare is a fundamental right, and we are committed to ensuring that every individual in our communities can benefit from essential health services.’’

    “This outreach is a testament to our dedication to fostering healthier communities and addressing health disparities.”

    “We believe that everyone deserves access to healthcare, regardless of their circumstances. Partnering with Access Bank for this outreach allows us to give back to the community and support the health and well-being of our neighbours, he said.

  • Entry Fees pegged for UNICEF Access Bank Charity Shield Polo Tourney

    Entry Fees pegged for UNICEF Access Bank Charity Shield Polo Tourney

    Participating teams for the forthcoming  Access Bank  UNICEF Charity Shield Polo Tournament will pay participating  fees ranging  between  one  million naira (N1 million) to three million naira (N3million ) to  vie for honours in Africa’s biggest charity polo event.

    The organisers, Fifth Chukker Polo & Country Club, announced  the commencement of registration   fees for the prestigious Access Bank UNICEF charity polo grand slam via a release,  stating categorically that  teams wishing to contest  for  the event’s biggest prize, the Charity Shield, will pay N3 million as entry fees.

    Teams that would play in the event’s second most-wanted prize, the Access Bank Cup, would pay N2.5 million to book a slot in the highly competitive  cup  that has already been oversubscribed well before the close of entry billed for the end of April. While teams that would do battles for the Late Usman Dantata Cup and the UNICEF Cup are expected to pay 2 Million and N1.5million respectively to be part of the glamorous Charity polo tournament in Africa.

    “It is with great delight that we write to inform you & extend our invitation to your club & team for the 2025 Access Bank UNICEF Charity Shield Polo tournament at Fifth Chukker Polo & Country Club Kaduna.” a statement signed by the Tournament Organising Committee declared, pointing out that:  “The tournament is scheduled to hold between  May 22nd  and June  1st & registration is hereby open.

    The statement that listed other requirements for the intending participating team explained that registration for entries will remain open until April  25th  ‘after which we will not accept any entry’. 

    The release  added: “All entries must be confirmed with payment as that will guarantee your team registration for the tournament.”

    Organisers  further  required that the bio-data of all grooms must be provided prior to arrival of any team horses & grooms, also stated that Schedule of play is attached to the entry form, while all teams must select a slot after registration against the cup they are registering.

    Before now, teams pay as much as 5 Million depending on the team handicap range, to play in the prestigious charity event whose entire proceeds and donations are donated to UNICEF to aid its campaign against HIV pandemic among venerable kids in Kaduna and its environs.

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    A top shot of the Organizing Committee hinted that preparations for this year’s edition are in top gear, confirming that many teams from across the country and foreign professionals have indicated interests to participate in the prestigious polo extravaganza.

    The official  did not disclose the number of teams that have so far confirmed their entries, he however assured that all the regulars particularly in the  high-goal, medium and the low goal categories are returning for the Access Bank powered charity polo rumble this year.

    Expectedly, this year’s  edition of the tournament would also see some dark horses and rookie  teams who may not be able to match their ambitions with actions when the battle rages at the exquisite lawns of the exclusive Fifth Chukker Club of Kangimi Resort in Kaduna.

    While bookmakers  are not taking anything from these low flying teams, any of the favourites who wish to underrate them can go ahead and so at his own peril. As it’s always said in polo, the prize for underrating is always an agonizing defeat.

    The grand event which was inaugurated way back in 2003, promises to live up to its billing as the most colourful and the most competitive polo event in Nigeria, as fortified high-goal teams parading all the game’s big names, have confirmed their readiness to rekindle their traditional rivalry in the Charity Shield rumble.

    Nigeria’s top rated player, Bello Buba who has played every edition of the tournament, believes everything would be neck-to neck till the final day before the winner could be separated.

    “One good thing about the Charity Shield is the fact that no team is a push over. All the teams are potential champions, but it would take the team with the best team-work and determination to make the difference,” Buba added.

  • Access Bank finances Green Africa Airways’ aircraft acquisition

    Access Bank finances Green Africa Airways’ aircraft acquisition

    Access Bank has provided a naira debt facility to partly fund the aircraft acquisition of Nigeria’s Lagos-based value airline – Green Africa Airways.

    The facility by the financial institution, the Green Africa Airways’ spokesperson / Brand Marketing Specialist, Omolora Kehinde, said is a significant step in the mission of  the carrier to provide safe, affordable and reliable air travel in the country.

    The airline official said the aircraft acquisition partly financed by Access Bank highlights its commitment to long term sustainability and growth in the aviation sector.

    The incoming aircraft, an ATR 72-500 with manufacturer’s serial number 852 and registration mark 5N-GAB, is expected to enter into service shortly after customary regulatory approvals.

    Commenting on the development, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Green Africa Airways, Mr Babawande Afolabi , said: “We are pleased to acquire our very first aircraft, another significant milestone for Green Africa. This incoming aircraft will be pivotal as we thoughtfully navigate the next phase of our journey to bring safe, affordable and reliable air travel to a broader group of customers in the region.”

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     Managing Director / Chief Executive Officer of Access Bank, Roosevelt Ogbonna  commented: “As one of the largest and leading financial institutions on the continent, we at Access Bank take special pride in supporting young businesses that have the potential to redefine their industries and act as major catalysts for positive impact in their local market and on the continent at large. We are impressed with the Green Africa story and excited about the brand’s future trajectory. We are delighted to support the acquisition of Green Africa’s very first owned aircraft.”

    Green Africa was launched against the backdrop of COVID-19 and entered revenue service in 2021. Green Africa has since established a strong presence in the domestic market as one of the most affordable and punctual airlines in the industry.

     Since launching service in 2021, the carrier has become known and recognized for its strong track record in on-time performance and affordability. Over the coming decade, Green Africa aims to better connect Nigeria, open up the West African seaboard, and be a significant contributor to economic development on the continent.

  • Access Bank Lagos City Marathon’s organisers pay tribute to Wigwe

    Access Bank Lagos City Marathon’s organisers pay tribute to Wigwe

    One year after his demise, organisers of the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon have paid tribute to the former Chief Executive Officer of Access Holdings, Herbert Wigwe, describing him as a motivator, excellent manager and pillar of road race in Nigeria.

      Wigwe, his wife, Chizoba and son, Chizyi lost their lives in a helicopter crash in California, United States, last year. The news of his death broke when athletes and officials were still in celebration mood at the Eko Atlantic City finish point for  the 2024 edition of the Lagos City Marathon.

      Organisers of the annual marathon event, Nilayo Sports Management, said yesterday that Wigwe played a key role by buying into the concept of the marathon 10 years ago.

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      Former Chief Executive Officer of Nilayo Sports and  now Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Bukola Olopade, said: “We will forever remain grateful to Wigwe for the legacy role he played in the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon. I won’t forget his morale support and motivation for the athletes and all those involved in the organisation of the marathon. Without the excellent role Wigwe played in the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon, I doubt if I will be where I am today. We give God the glory that Wigwe left behind an amazing daughter, who is carrying on from where her father stopped.

      “The 10th  edition of the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon will hold this Saturday, February 15, and the organisers have designed a special package to celebrate Wigwe, his wife, Chizoba and son, Chizyi. Through the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon, Wigwe played a vital role by contributing to youth empowerment, among others. 

       “His legacy will continue to challenge us to put in more efforts in ensuring the great job he started through the marathon race gets better. The dedicated management staffs he left behind at Access Holdings are striving to ensure the marathon gets bigger and better,” Olopade stated.

  • Recapitalisation: Access Bank raises N351bto meet CBN’s new capital base

    Recapitalisation: Access Bank raises N351bto meet CBN’s new capital base

    Access Holdings Plc has successfully raised N350.96 billion to surpass the new minimum capital requirement of N500 billion stipulated by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

    In a regulatory filing at the Nigerian Exchange (NGX), Access Holdings stated that it had secured full regulatory approvals from the CBN and the Securities and Exchange Commission (CBN) for its recently concluded rights issue of 17.77 billion ordinary shares of 50 Kobo each at N19.75 per share, successfully raising the target amount of N351 billion.

    As at the third quarter 2024, Access Holdings had share premium and share capital of N251.81 billion. With the new equity funds, the company now has share premium and share capital of N602.8 billion, N102.8 billion above N500 billion stipulated by the CBN under the ongoing recapitalisation exercise.

    Chairman, Access Holdings Plc, Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, said the Access brand has always resonated strongly with local and international capital markets. Since 2004, Access Bank has raised billions of dollars in capital to meet successive CBN recapitalization directives. We are pleased that this time, we are the first to cross the finish line.

    Said he: “The success of the Rights Issue demonstrates the resilience of Nigeria’s capital market and reinforces our shareholders’ confidence in the present value and potential of our company.

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    “We deeply acknowledge the invaluable and strong support of the Central Bank of Nigeria and the Securities and Exchange Commission, who both played crucial roles in ensuring the integrity and efficacy of our Rights Issue exercise.

    “We are also grateful to our valued shareholders, whose loyalty to the Access brand and vision for over 22 years has been most inspiring and unwavering. As we enter the new year, we are well-positioned to leverage our enhanced capital base to deliver sustainable value for our stakeholders”.

    The bank noted that  by utilizing the NGX’s E-offer platform, the company provided its shareholders with a seamless, efficient, and convenient subscription experience, significantly reducing barriers and democratizing participation in the Rights Issue.

  • Lagos, Access Bank partner on 704 housing units in Ikorodu

    Lagos, Access Bank partner on 704 housing units in Ikorodu

    Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has reiterated his administration’s commitment to addressing housing deficit in the state.

    Governor Sanwo-Olu spoke yesterday at Lagos House, Ikeja during the presentation of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for the construction of 704 new housing units of two-bedroom apartments in Odo Nla, Ikorodu, facilitated by the Lagos State Government and Access Bank PLC.

    The housing project, which is going to be 44 blocks of 16 units per block of two-bedroom flats, is expected to be completed in the next two years with complementing features like a cinema house, gym center, playground, and security network, among others.

    Governor Sanwo-Olu described the partnership as part of efforts to provide affordable, decent homes for residents of the state, especially the low-income earners.

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    The governor noted that addressing the housing deficit requires bold steps initiatives, and partnerships with the private sector, adding that his administration has streamlined approval processes and introduced several incentives to further demonstrate the government’s commitment to making Lagos an attractive destination for housing investments.

    He said: “Guided by our T.H.E.M.E.S.+ Agenda, we have implemented a range of initiatives to tackle this challenge. Over the past five years, we have delivered 21 housing estates across low, medium, and premium categories, providing homes to thousands of Lagosians. While these achievements are commendable, we recognise that much more needs to be done.

    “In collaboration with Access Bank PLC, we are embarking on a transformative housing project that will deliver the first batch of 704 units of two-bedroom apartments at Odo-Nla in Ikorodu. This initiative is designed specifically for low-income Lagosians, offering affordable mortgage terms: a down payment of just 10 percent, a single-digit interest rate, and a repayment period of up to 20 years. This is not just about building houses; it is about creating homes, fostering communities, and laying the foundation for better lives.

    “The economic multiplier effect of this project cannot be overstated. It will stimulate massive engagement across the housing construction value chain, including artisans, suppliers, and building professionals. By doing so, it not only addresses housing needs but also creates jobs and drives economic growth.

    “Our commitment to addressing the housing deficit is unwavering. Beyond the Odo-Nla project, we have other ongoing housing developments at Sangotedo Phase 2, Ita Marun in Epe, Ajara in Badagry, Ibeshe Phase 2 in Ikorodu, and Egan Igando Clusters 2 and 3. These projects collectively represent our determination to provide lasting solutions to the housing needs of Lagosians.

  • LASG, Access Bank partner on Odonla-Odogunyan Housing Estate project

    LASG, Access Bank partner on Odonla-Odogunyan Housing Estate project

    Lagos Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu has announced the launch of the Odonla-Odogunyan Housing Estate Project, a significant step towards addressing the housing challenges in Lagos State.

    The governor stated that the project is a collaboration between the Lagos State Government and Access Bank Plc.

    In a tweet on his X account, Sanwo-Olu highlighted that the new housing project will provide modern amenities for residents.

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    “Today, I signed off on the Odonla-Odogunyan Housing Estate Project, a collaborative initiative between the Lagos State Government and Access Bank Plc,” Sanwo-Olu wrote.

    He explained that the estate, spanning 9.98 hectares, is set to feature 704 modern 2-bedroom apartments spread across 44 blocks.

    Sanwo-Olu emphasised that the project is about more than just building homes. “We’re not just building homes. We are focused on enhancing the living experience for our residents,” he said.

    The governor also said the housing estate will include a cinema house, a playground for children, a water treatment plant, and well-constructed road networks.

  • ‘No missing funds in Access Bank’

    ‘No missing funds in Access Bank’

    Access Holdings Plc, the parent company of Access Bank Plc, has refuted allegations of missing funds in the bank.

    In a statement, the company stated that its attention had been drawn to a video on social media wherein allegations of missing funds and unethical behaviour were made against Access Bank.

    The company stated that the allegations were unfounded and baseless.

    “First and foremost, we wish to emphasise that the safety and security of our customers’ funds are core priorities which we take seriously. Second, Access Bank Plc does not engage in or condone any unethical behaviour.

    “In the instant case, the allegations of missing funds in the bank are most untrue and baseless. There is no N500 million or any other fund or amount missing from the subject customer’s account or from any other customer’s account with us.

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    “We and other independent stakeholders in the banking industry have thoroughly investigated these allegations and independently arrived at the same conclusions,” Access Holdings stated.

    According to the company, Access Bank operates with the highest ethical standards while protecting its customers’ interests in line with extant privacy laws.

    “Consequently, whilst we have engaged and will continue to engage with our customers, we must advise the public not to rely on or believe sensational and unverified claims that are designed to titillate and mislead the public. We remain committed to serving our customers,” the bank stated.

  • Access Bank wins Digital Jurist awards

    Access Bank wins Digital Jurist awards

    Access Bank PLC has emerged the 2024 Best Digital Award Winner in the Commercial Banks Category at the Digital Jurist Awards, organized by Phillips Consulting (pcl.).

    In addition to this top honour, the bank also secured the Best Website Award, achieving an impressive score of 201 points for its engaging and user-friendly digital experience. Access Bank’s cumulative score of 380 points reflects its excellence across digital touchpoints, including its website, web portal, mobile app, and social media.

    Commenting on the recognition, Chief Communications Officer of Access Holdings PLC, Amaechi Okobi, said: “We are honoured to receive the Best Digital and Best Website Awards at this year’s Digital Jurist Awards. At Access, our focus on digital innovation is driven by our commitment to deliver seamless, secure, and customer-centric solutions across all touchpoints. This recognition validates our ongoing efforts to enhance our digital platforms, making financial services more accessible and efficient for our customers.

     We thank Phillips Consulting for recognising our efforts and will continue to raise the bar in digital excellence.”

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    Phillips Consulting has long served as a development partner to Nigerian financial institutions and other organisations with an online presence. Leveraging its proprietary Digital Jurist platform, the firm has conducted assessments of digital touchpoints in various sectors, from financial services and insurance to telecommunications and government agencies, over the past 17 years. Originally established as Web Jurist®, the platform was reimagined as Digital Jurist to assess new and diversified digital channels in the evolving digital economy. Digital Jurist’s evaluation framework examines a range of factors, including user experience, accessibility, performance, functionality, security, customer service, support, marketing, and content engagement across digital platforms.

    These awards reinforce Access Bank’s leadership in digital banking, adding to recent accolades including 2024 Best Digital Bank and Best Mobile Banking App by World Finance, Best Mobile Banking App and Best Digital Bank by The Digital Banker Awards, and Best Digital Banking Initiative at the Global Retail Banking Innovation Awards 2024.