Access Bank Plc recently hosted the President of the Federal Republic of Germany, Frank-Walter Steinmeier, during his inaugural visit to Nigeria, emphasizing the deepening economic ties between Germany and Nigeria. The President was accompanied by German business leaders and representatives, underlining Access Bank’s key role in fostering bilateral trade and supporting German enterprises across Nigeria and Africa.
The visit, which included high-level discussions with Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in Abuja and ECOWAS Chairman Omar Touray, demonstrated Germany’s interest in strengthening economic partnerships in the region. In Lagos, President Steinmeier’s itinerary featured a significant visit to Access Bank and engagements with Nigerian startups and German-Nigerian business representatives to explore opportunities for trade and investment.
ACCESS BANK ROUNDTABLE HIGHLIGHTS
A central part of the visit was a business roundtable hosted by Access Bank’s leadership team and its German Desk. This event convened stakeholders from both nations, focusing on critical sectors like finance and energy to drive economic growth and innovation.
Roosevelt Ogbonna, Managing Director/CEO of Access Bank Plc, noted during the discussions, “Germany’s position as Nigeria’s second-largest trading partner in Africa showcases the mutual benefits of this partnership. Access Bank remains dedicated to leveraging its cross-border banking expertise to foster sustainable growth, innovation, and economic progress across the continent.”
The event also featured remarks from Roland Siller, CEO of DEG (German Development Bank), who highlighted the financial solutions DEG offers to support businesses in both countries.
THE ROLE OF ACCESS BANK’S GERMAN DESK
Celebrating its sixth anniversary this year, Access Bank’s German Desk, led by Sebastian Barroso da Fonseca, has become a critical resource for German and European businesses in Sub-Saharan Africa. The Desk has supported over 100 clients, providing tailored financial solutions, including local funding, cash management, and fund repatriation services. Operating across key markets like Nigeria, Ghana, Angola, and South Africa, it has facilitated seamless cross-border transactions and partnerships.
ECONOMIC OUTLOOK AND FUTURE COLLABORATIONS
President Steinmeier’s visit concluded with a Networking Reception at Access Bank’s headquarters, where delegates and stakeholders strengthened existing ties and explored future collaborations.
Amid global challenges, Africa’s economic prospects remain strong, with the continent maintaining the highest growth rates worldwide. Nigeria, as a focal point for investors, continues to attract international partnerships, with Germany emerging as a key ally.
Access Bank’s growing presence across 24 countries in Africa, Europe, and Asia positions it as a vital gateway for trade and investment, playing a pivotal role in fostering regional and global economic integration.
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