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  • iREP partners Ecobank, unveils 15th anniversary edition

    iREP partners Ecobank, unveils 15th anniversary edition

    The iREPRESENT International Documentary Film Festival (iREP) has partnered Ecobank Nigeria for its 15th anniversary edition, holding between March 18 and 22, at the Ecobank Pan African Centre, Ozumba Mbadiwe Street, Victoria Island, Lagos.  The 2026 festival marks 15 years since the founding of iREP, acclaimed as one of Africa’s most influential platforms for documentary films. Convened by the Foundation for the Promotion of Documentary Films in Africa (FPDFA), iREP has consistently advanced documentary storytelling, critical discourse, and capacity development across the continent.

     With the theme Transformation, the anniversary edition will examine the transformative power of documentary filmmaking in Africa over the past 15 years. The various events in the programme – conversations, screenings, workshops, trainings etc – will spotlight the role of documentary films in shaping public discourse, influencing policy, preserving cultural memory, and amplifying African voices on global platforms.

    Set against a reawakened African cultural renaissance, the festival reflects a renewed emphasis on African creativity, identity, and talent. Through documentary cinema, iREP continues to place African storytellers at the centre of conversations shaping the continent’s past, present, and future.

     Co-founder and Executive Director of iREP, Femi Odugbemi, unveiling the anniversary edition recently in Lagos, stated: “The 2026 festival is a special anniversary edition, marking 15 years since the founding of iREP, one of Africa’s most influential platforms for documentary cinema.”

    He added: “Over the years, iREP has played a critical role in advancing documentary storytelling, discourse, and skills development across the continent.” He described the partnership with Ecobank Nigeria as a landmark collaboration that reflects a shared commitment to youth empowerment, creativity, and capacity building, particularly for young and emerging documentary filmmakers.

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     As part of the partnership, Ecobank Nigeria will host a three-day Mobile Phone Filmmaking Workshop from March 16–18, 2026, ahead of the festival. To be facilitated by renowned and tested filmmakers, the workshop will provide participants with hands-on training in producing compelling documentary films using mobile devices. Outstanding films produced during the workshop will attract prize rewards, encouraging innovation and excellence among participants.

     Commenting on the collaboration, Head of Marketing and Corporate Communications at Ecobank Nigeria, Austen Osokpor reaffirmed the Bank’s commitment to the creative and cultural sectors. “As a Pan African bank, we have a collective vision of promoting African culture to reinforce and celebrate our shared heritage. This partnership aligns with the broader resurgence of African creativity, enabling talents to thrive while preserving the stories that define who we are as a people.”

     The 2026 iREP programme will feature over 30 documentary films, including award winning titles addressing key themes such as governance and democracy, advocacy, technology, and culture. The festival will offer a dynamic mix of screenings, panel discussions, workshops, and networking sessions — bringing together filmmakers, scholars, policymakers, students, and documentary enthusiasts from across Africa and beyond.

  • Ecobank guarantees seamless digital services to customers

    Ecobank guarantees seamless digital services to customers

    Ecobank Nigeria, a member of Africa’s leading pan-African banking group, has assured customers of uninterrupted access to banking services throughout the year-end holiday period via its secure and robust digital platforms. The bank also urged customers to remain vigilant against fraud and scams during the festive season.

    Speaking on the development, Victor Yalokwu, Head, Products & Analytics, Consumer & Commercial Banking, Ecobank Nigeria, said the Bank’s digital channels — including Ecobank Cards, the Ecobank Mobile App, USSD *326#, Ecobank Online, OmniPlus, Omnilite, EcobankPay, RapidTransfer, ATMs, PoS terminals, and over 35,000 Ecobank Xpress Point (agency banking) locations nationwide — will remain fully available to support customers throughout the yuletide and year-end holiday period.

    He noted that customers will continue to enjoy a wide range of services during the period, including local and international funds transfers, bill payments and airtime top-ups, merchant and QR payments, balance inquiries and account statements, as well as cardless cash withdrawals via ATMs.

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    According to Yalokwu, “Ecobank encourages customers to leverage these digital solutions for safe, fast, and efficient banking, especially during the festive season when convenience and reliability are essential. While physical branch operations may be subject to adjusted working hours in line with public holidays, customers can be assured that Ecobank’s digital platforms are designed to deliver uninterrupted service and enhanced security at all times. Ecobank remains committed to providing innovative financial solutions and exceptional customer service, and we wish all our customers a joyful festive season and a prosperous New Year.”

    Yalokwu also cautioned customers to remain vigilant against fraudsters and scammers during the period. “Before you wrap up the year, tighten your security. December brings online sales, travel, and year-end distractions—this is exactly when scammers are most active. From fake festive deals to cloned merchant sites and suspicious messages, staying vigilant helps keep your money safe.”

    He advised customers to shop only on trusted websites, never share their PINs, passwords, or one-time passwords (OTPs), avoid banking on public Wi-Fi networks, be cautious of urgent or emotionally charged messages, and regularly review their account activity.

  • LG, Ecobank partner to expand AI technology, others

    LG, Ecobank partner to expand AI technology, others

    By Chidera Ezeokeke

    LG Electronics Nigeria and Ecobank Nigeria have joined forces to redefine smart living for Nigerians through a groundbreaking partnership that blends cutting-edge AI technology with accessible financing solutions.

    Unveiled at the LG Smart TV AI Press Conference held at Ecobank’s Victoria Island headquarters, this collaboration aims to make premium smart home experiences affordable and attainable by pairing LG’s innovative AI-powered TVs with Ecobank’s flexible Easy Monthly Installment (EMI) scheme. Together, this collaboration is removing barriers between technology and consumers, setting a new benchmark for connected living in Nigeria.

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    At the event, LG introduced its latest lineup of AI Smart TVs, featuring OLED, QNED, NanoCell, and UHD models powered by LG ThinQ AI. This proprietary platform learns user preferences, responds to voice commands, and seamlessly integrates with other LG smart appliances. These innovations underscore LG’s commitment to evolving beyond traditional smart devices and delivering a fully connected, intelligent home experience tailored to modern lifestyles.

    During the event, Mr. Choongbae Seok, General Manager, Media Entertainment Solutions, TV Division, emphasised that LG’s goal has always been to make innovation part of everyday life by integrating Artificial Intelligence across its product range. “Our AI-powered products are designed to simplify living, enhance comfort and create a connected lifestyle for our customers. With AI at the heart of our innovation, LG continues to redefine what it means to live smart,” he said.

  • Ecobank upgrades app to enhance banking experience

    Ecobank upgrades app to enhance banking experience

    Ecobank Nigeria, a subsidiary of pan-African banking group, has unveiled its upgraded mobile app for a faster, smarter, and simpler banking experience.

    This marks a significant step in the bank’s commitment to digital innovation and financial empowerment. The app features a modern design and improved functionalities, including advanced facial recognition, seamless bill payments, airtime top-ups, and QR code payments, to make banking more convenient.

    Bolaji Lawal, managing director, said: “These features make smart banking effortless for customers using smartphones. The app leverages digital technology to offer real convenience, security, and flexibility, enabling individuals to manage their finances with ease.”

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    Kola Adeleke, executive director of Commercial and Consumer Banking, said “the app comes with account opening, cardless onboarding; end to end card management for card request, activation, PIN change, block and unblock account; end to end profile management; dormant account reactivation and live monitoring of foreign exchange rates”

    He added: “This app is not just a digital tool; it represents how we want to engage with our customers. Our goal is to make banking faster, smarter, and simpler for customers.”

  • Oba Sijuwade’s enduring legacy resonates at Ecobank

    Oba Sijuwade’s enduring legacy resonates at Ecobank

    After a successful outing marking the tenth year memorial celebrations in honour of the late Oba Okunade Adele Sijuwade (Olubuse II), the 50th Ooni of Ife, who reigned from 1980 to 2015 on July 25, at the Harbour Point on Victoria Island, Lagos, 

    The Crown and the Legacy, a memorial art exhibition berthed at Ecobank Head Office Complex, Ozumba Mbadiwe, Victoria Island, Lagos. The second leg of the exhibition, which opened on August 4th to August 17th, was put together by Ecobank Pan African Centre Studios, in collaboration with the Sijuwade Royal Family.

    Last Friday, it was an exclusive viewing for some Arts Writers who were conducted round the exhibition by the duo of the Curator and Consultant to Sijuwade Royal Family, Dr. Oludamola Adebowale and Mr. Atinse Robert of National Museum, Lagos.

    At a glance, one can see that the exhibition is a culmination of extensive work, featuring archival materials and treasured objects meticulously sourced from a rich array of repositories; state archives, Sijuwade royal family archives, museums and private collectors and government institutions.

    Mounted within an expansive hall, the collections are displayed in different sections such as coronation, ascension and rebirth of a kingdom; National Commission for Museum and Monuments corner; enduring legacy of Ooni of Ife corner; diplomatic corner and photo section. All this body of works which range from colourful regalia, to rare photographs, staff of office, other memorabilia and personal effects including invitation letters to top government functions, cheque book, bank’s black card, album covers of King Sunny Ade, Prince Yemi Kuti, Orlando Owoh and Ebenezer Obey music, tells a visual story of the life and times of the late Oba Sijuwade.

    Providing historical perspective to the exhibition are some works loaned by the National Museum Lagos. The artefacts, which are displayed in glass cubicles within the NCMM corner include Ife terra cotta head, (from Odo Ogbe street, produced between 12th to 15th century); Ife bronze head (a bronze crowned head, from Wunmonije compound 12th to 15th century); bronze figure of Ooni (in full traditional regalia, from Ita Yemoo 12th to 15th century) and bronze head of Ooni. 

    As you move through the hall, you will encounter more than a display of historical objects as you will also experience a reawakening of the collective memory of the Yoruba people.

    According to the exhibition team, ‘each photograph, each ceremonial garment, each royal artifact carries with it a story: of leadership grounded in heritage yet responsive to modernity, of vision and statesmanship that transcend borders and inspired generations.’

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    With the second outing of the memorial exhibition at Ecobank Headquarters, it is a ‘reminder that our heritage is not confined within the walls of a single palace or the pages of a local chronicle- they are a testament to cultural narratives that belong to global history’. 

    Earlier on Monday August 4, at the opening of the exhibition,  Yeye Olori Oladunni Sijuwade described the exhibition as ‘the beauty of His Majesty,’ offering art enthusiasts a rare and intimate glimpse into the monarch’s regal attire, cultural elegance, and enduring legacy—10 years after his demise.

    Dr. Adebowale stated that the exhibition is a tribute and an educational platform, preserving history and illuminating Yoruba heritage. Commending the partnership, Adebowale called for more corporate interest in cultural heritage projects, citing Ecobank’s involvement as an exemplary model.

    Mr. Atinse Robert, of the National Museum, Lagos saluted the Sijuwade Royal Family for celebrating their patriarch and Yoruba heritage adding that such an exhibition should be encouraged to preserve culture and tradition.

    Head of Corporate Communications at Ecobank Nigeria, Austen Osokpor, said the exhibition aligns with Ecobank’s mission to preserve and promote African heritage.  According to him, “Hosting this memorial exhibition in partnership with the Sijuwade Royal Family is a privilege and a reflection of our commitment to celebrating and empowering our rich, diverse communities across the continent.”

  • Moody’s upgrades Ecobank ratings outlook to stable

    Moody’s upgrades Ecobank ratings outlook to stable

    Moody’s has affirmed Ecobank Transnational Incorporated’s (ETI) B3/Not Prime long- and short-term issuer ratings, B3 senior unsecured debt rating; b2 notional Baseline Credit Assessment (BCA), and b1 Adjusted BCA.

    At the same time, rating analysts at Moody’s said they have changed the outlook on the group’s long-term issuer and senior unsecured debt ratings to stable from negative.

    ETI’s subsidiaries operate across 38 countries—including 35 African countries- and total assets of $28.9 billion as of March 2025, details from the rating note highlighted. Moody’s said the decision to change the outlook to stable on the long-term issuer and senior unsecured ratings reflects ETI’s resilient financial performance.

    The rating upgrade also takes into consideration higher dividends being up-streamed to ETI, resulting in lower double leverage and reduced refinancing risk.

    The rating adjustment also reflects an expectation that the recapitalization process of Ecobank Nigeria Limited will be completed by the end of 2025, with limited impact on the group’s financial fundamentals.

    “The stable outlook also captures our expectation that a series of capital-boosting initiatives and actions to cure Ecobank Nigeria’s total capital position will be completed before the end of 2025”, according to the ratings agency.

    In May 2025, ETI received shareholder approval to raise $250 million in Additional Tier 1 (AT1) capital and announced the launch of the transaction effective 9 July 2025, of which a portion is expected to be down-streamed to Ecobank Nigeria as AT1 capital during Q3-2025.

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    Ecobank Nigeria’s plan to raise $200 million in AT1 capital was noted in the rating note. The ratings analysts said they consider.

    “We also note that Ecobank Nigeria’s recent successful offer to tender $150 million of its February 2026 $300 million notes and consent to remove the capital adequacy ratio covenant from this bond’s terms alleviates risks of an event of default in Nigeria that would trigger cross default at ETI level”.

    “Over the past year, ETI has shown resilience in its financial performance, which supports our change in outlook to stable. Liquidity risks are being moderated by the group’s gradually improving profitability during 2024 and Q1-2025.

    “This has translated into a 22% increase in dividends up-streamed to ETI during 2024, these being received from 22 dividend-paying subsidiaries compared to just 14 in 2021”.

    In turn, albeit high, ETI’s double leverage ratio – which measures the liquidity risk taken on by the holding company, as a result of it borrowing in order to invest in the equity of its subsidiaries – has eased to 168% as of December 2024 from 173 per cent in 2023.

    Additionally, the stable outlook reflects reduced liquidity risk at the holding company level with the refinancing of short-term liabilities in 2024 with longer-term funding.

    Moody’s said this is underpinned by demonstrated market access, notably through senior unsecured notes issuance of $400 million in October 2024 and a tap increase of $125 million in May 2025, maturing in October 2029.

    ETI’s B3 long-term issuer ratings affirmation reflects the affirmation of the group’s b2 notional BCA; the affirmation of the group’s b1 adjusted BCA as captured by a one-notch uplift for affiliate support reflecting Moody’s assessment of a moderate probability that the firm’s major institutional shareholders would extend support to the group. Moody’s said asset quality for the group has improved over recent years.

  • Ecobank unveils new premier branch in Lagos

    Ecobank unveils new premier branch in Lagos

    Ecobank Nigeria has announced the opening of a new branch dedicated solely to Premier Banking clients. This branch located No 25. Akin Adesola Street in Victoria Island is dedicated to serving high-net-worth individuals, providing personalized world-class banking services and amenities.

    This location offers a bouquet of carefully curated premium banking services enjoyed in the comfort of an exclusive VIP Lounge staffed with dedicated team of relationship managers and supported by a 24X7 contact centre.

    Announcing this in Lagos, Adeola Ogunyemi, Head, Distribution Channels/Sales, Consumer & Commercial Banking at Ecobank said “in Nigeria, Ecobank’s mission is to deliver on its promise as the preferred platform for accessible, affordable, and instant banking services to customers. Ecobank remains the go-to bank for pan-African trade and payments.

     “Our medium-term goal is to establish ourselves as the leading gateway for facilitating pan-African banking services to our customers in Nigeria. This new premier branch  is designed to provide our high-net-worth customers with a suit of exclusive benefits and privileges. This is part of Ecobank’s strategy to cater to the evolving needs of its affluent clientele, offering them a tailored banking solution with enhanced features and privileges.

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    Ecobank Nigeria Ltd. is a subsidiary of the Ecobank Group, the leading pan-African banking group with operations in 35 African countries and an international presence in four locations (London, Paris, Beijing, and Dubai). Ecobank’s unique pan-African platform is designed to help unlock the opportunities of the continent, for the continent, facilitating regional integration, trade, and investment across borders.

    Ecobank utilizes a broad range of digital platforms such as the Ecobank Mobile App, USSD *326#, Ecobank Online, Ecobank OmniPlus, Ecobank Omnilite, EcobankPay, Ecobank RapidTransfer, ATMs, POS terminals, and a vast distribution network with over 250 branches and approximately 50,000 agency banking locations.

  • Ecobank appoints Adepoju Group Executive Director

    Ecobank appoints Adepoju Group Executive Director

    The board of Ecobank Transnational Incorporated (ETI) Plc, the parent company of the Ecobank Group, has appointed Ayo Adepoju, the current group chief financial officer (CFO), to the board as Group Executive Director, effective June 4, 2025.

    Ayo brought two decades of broad-based leadership experience and deep institutional knowledge as a proud product of the Ecobank Group.

    His expertise spanned financial management, capital markets, strategic planning, capital raising and structuring, treasury management, investor relations, business performance management, governance, enterprise transformation, financial due diligence, internal control, and risk-based audit.

    As a distinguished finance executive, he has been instrumental in shaping the group’s financial transformation, capital strategy, and long-term resilience. Since joining Ecobank in 2012, he has held several key leadership positions, including Group Financial Controller, Group Head of Business Performance and Analytics, and currently Group CFO.

    Over the years, he has led numerous strategic initiatives, including landmark capital market transactions such as Eurobonds, Basel III-compliant instruments, and sustainability-linked debt. These efforts have significantly enhanced Ecobank’s presence in international capital markets and strengthened transparency and investor engagement.

    Prior to joining Ecobank, he worked at PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) in London and Lagos, serving in the Financial Services Practice.

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    Commenting on the appointment, Papa Madiaw Ndiaye, Chairman of the Ecobank Group, said Adepoju has  through his proven leadership fostered trusted relationships with the board, which made his appointment both natural and strategic for the group’s future.

    He said: “I believe that Ayo embodies Ecobank’s renewed talent philosophy, a homegrown leader with global exposure and a compelling track record. His intellect, integrity, and impact-driven leadership have long been evident. His appointment to the Board is a testament to our belief in recognizing and elevating excellence from within.”

    Jeremy Awori, Group Chief Executive Officer, added that Adepoju has played a critical role in strengthening Ecobank’s financial resilience and enabling sustainable business growth.

    “His ability to manage complexity, innovate in financial strategy, align finance with enterprise-wide transformation, and lead collaboratively has made him a critical member of our executive team. I look forward to deepening our partnership as we drive forward our Growth, Transformation and Returns strategy ,” Awori said.

    Adepoju holds a First-Class Honours degree from the University of Lagos and is a Fellow of both the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) and the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA), UK. He also holds an MBA from Warwick Business School and a Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership from Regent University, USA.

    He has completed executive education programs at Wharton, London Business School, and most recently in 2024, the Advanced Management Program at Harvard Business School. An official member of the Forbes Finance Council, he is also a published author and respected thought leader in finance and organizational strategy.

    Ecobank stated that the appointment reinforced Ecobank’s continued commitment to nurturing internal talent and promoting leadership excellence across Africa. 

  • Ecobank asks SMEs to explore $100b global fashion market opportunities

    Ecobank asks SMEs to explore $100b global fashion market opportunities

    Ecobank Nigeria has asked fashion-oriented Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) to explore export opportunities in the $100 billion offshore fashion industry to earn forex and support domestic economy.

    Speaking at the fourth edition of Ecobank’s yearly Adire Lagos Exhibition Fair, Head of Small and Medium Enterprises at Ecobank Nigeria, Omoboye Odu, said the bank is passionate about supporting fashion businesses and nurturing them to harness domestic and global opportunities in the industry.

    According to her, the global fashion industry is valued at over $100 billion, with Africa contributing more than $30 billion to that figure. Nigeria, she added, must seize the opportunity to become a key player in this space.

    “With development finance institutions, such as the World Bank and the IFC, already offering funding facilities to support fashion industries across Africa, there is no reason Nigeria should be left out.

    “We want Nigerian entrepreneurs and creatives to be among the top 25 leading voices in African fashion. That’s why Ecobank is creating accessible platforms at no cost to showcase their work to the world.”

    According to her, the event was designed to spotlight indigenous textile craftsmanship, particularly Adire fabric, serve as both a cultural celebration and a business growth opportunity, offering local artisans, designers, and textile producers a unique space to gain visibility, make sales, and connect with wider markets, locally and internationally.

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    Reflecting on past editions, Odu shared that last year’s event attracted over 20,000 visitors in just four days. One vendor reportedly made N30 million in sales, equivalent to six months’ worth of revenue, demonstrating the event’s commercial viability.

    Over 130 vendors are showcasing a diverse range of adire designs, fashion items, and lifestyle products. The fair attracts a wide audience, including fashion enthusiasts, cultural professionals, creatives, entrepreneurs, and shoppers from across Nigeria and beyond.

    Notable dignitaries who have so far graced the fair include the Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs. Toke Benson-Awoyinka, who represented the Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Lagos State First Lady, Her Excellency Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu; the wife of the former Ekiti State Governor, Erelu Bisi Fayemi; Ogun State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs. Adijat Motunrayo Adeleye-Oladapo; former Chairman of Ecobank Transnational Incorporated, Emmanuel Ikazoboh; founding President of the FinTech Association of Nigeria (FANI), Dr. Segun Aina; and the owner of Nike Art Gallery, Nike Davies-Okundaye, among others.

    Odu expressed delight at the strong turnout, saying: “This year’s exhibition promises a dynamic blend of established brands and emerging designers who embody innovation, cultural pride, and export potential.”

    She further emphasised the fair’s role as a major Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative by Ecobank.

    “The Adire Lagos Exhibition Fair is a key CSR initiative, offering SMEs a platform to showcase their products free of charge while fostering economic growth and national unity.

    Last year’s event attracted over 20,000 visitors in four days, with one vendor making N30 million in sales—equivalent to six months’ revenue—demonstrating the fair’s strong commercial potential.”

    Exhibitors also praised the growing appeal of adire designs. Ms. Fadilat Lawal, Managing Director of Sanyaolu Trading Stores, Abeokuta, highlighted the durability and cultural symbolism of Abeokuta Adire.

    Ms. Cynthia Uma, Creative Director of Cecesignature Unisex Clothing, Lagos, emphasised adire’s growing global recognition as a revenue driver for her business.

  • ECOWAS, Ecobank drive alternative energy solutions

    ECOWAS, Ecobank drive alternative energy solutions

    The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), in collaboration with Ecobank Nigeria and the World Bank, has trained more than 100 entrepreneurs in Nigeria through a specialized program focused on small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the off-grid photovoltaic solar energy sector.

    This initiative forms part of the Regional Off-Grid Electricity Access Project (ROGEAP), which seeks to promote the development of a regional market for standalone solar energy systems. ROGEAP is funded by the World Bank, with additional support from the Clean Technology Fund (CTF) and the Directorate General of International Cooperation (DGIS) of the Government of the Netherlands.

    El Hadji Sylla, Senior Adviser at the ECOWAS Commission’s ROGEAP, disclosed this during a three-day Entrepreneurship Business Training held in Lagos, organized in collaboration with Ecobank. He noted that Nigerian SMEs have already benefited from grants totaling $800,000 under the project, aimed at increasing participation in the off-grid solar energy value chain.

    Sylla explained that the capacity-building workshops, conducted in both Abuja and Lagos, were designed to enhance the technical and financial capabilities of SMEs focused on solar energy. The objective is to better position these businesses for growth and long-term sustainability in the renewable energy sector.

    He also stated that ECOWAS is in discussions with Ecobank Group to establish mechanisms that would allow the bank to offer both technical and financial support to SMEs in the solar energy ecosystem. This includes extending direct credit lines to eligible businesses.

    According to Sylla, the first component of ROGEAP—led by the ECOWAS Commission—centers on the creation of a strong regional market for off-grid solar solutions. A key strategy involves equipping SMEs with the skills to develop technically sound and financially viable projects that meet commercial lending standards.

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    “This year, we have worked closely with Ecobank Nigeria to align solar-focused SME portfolios with the bank’s financing requirements,” Sylla said. “Our goal is to ensure that the submitted projects are not only technically feasible but also bankable.”

    Also speaking at the event, Salamatu Baba Tunwzang, Team Lead at ROGEAP’s Entrepreneurship Support Facilities, emphasized that the program goes beyond technical training. She highlighted that participating SMEs are also being prepared to access ROGEAP grants and other funding opportunities.

     “When businesses join our network, they gain access to both technical assistance and financial resources,” she said. “We also build the capacity of technical installers, who can equally benefit from these opportunities. It’s a comprehensive support system—they receive funding, technical training, market intelligence, and valuable networking opportunities for collaboration.”

    In his remarks, Managing Director of Ecobank Nigeria, Bolaji Lawal, reiterated the vital role SMEs play in driving economic sustainability and inclusion. Represented by Otega Aghogho Odjegna, Regional Head for the Apapa-Isolo Region, Lawal described SMEs as the “lifeblood of any economy,” pointing out that they contribute over 80 percent of employment across West Africa.

    He further noted that this initiative aligns with Ecobank’s ELLEVATE program and the Single Market Trade Hub, both of which aim to equip SMEs with tailored financial solutions, digital tools, and strategic insights to help them scale and compete in broader markets.