Managing director of FirstBank Group Olusegun Alebiosu says the bank is focused on bridging financing gaps and utilising digital solutions to address business challenges.
Mr. Alebiosu stated this on Tuesday at the 31st Nigerian Economic Summit in Abuja, during a session titled “Expanding Access to Finance and Driving Growth Across Middle Market and Emerging Corporate Segments.”
He said a strong national economy depends on the productivity of its real sector and that access to finance is key to achieving that goal.
“That is why we have placed this subject at the heart of our discussion to catalyse sustainable growth and inclusion where it matters most,” he said.
According to him, FirstBank supports small and medium enterprises and emerging corporates through targeted products and services aimed at promoting growth across their value chains.
He added that collaboration among policymakers, industries and technology stakeholders is necessary to create an environment where businesses can thrive.
“With a legacy of 131 years of continuous service, FirstBank remains a partner for SMEs and large corporates,” he said.
“Our banking solutions are designed to drive innovation, enhance resilience, and support diversification.”
The group executive of commercial banking, North Division of FirstBank, Aishatu Bubaram, said the middle market and emerging corporates were vital to Nigeria’s economic growth.
She said the sectors face challenges such as limited access to finance, weak advisory support and underdeveloped business environments.
“FirstBank recognises that addressing these barriers is not just a banking imperative but a national one,” Mrs. Bubaram said.
She added that the bank would continue to expand access to finance, deploy technology to open opportunities and build partnerships that enable businesses to grow.
