The Development Bank of Nigeria (DBN) recently celebrated its Partner Financial Institutions (PFIs) during the annual DBN Service Ambassadors’ Awards Ceremony held in Abuja. The event recognized the significant contributions of these institutions in driving financial inclusion and supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across the country.
Celebrating Collaborative Success
During the ceremony, DBN Managing Director, Tony Okpanachi, expressed gratitude to the PFIs for their continued collaboration and commitment to empowering businesses in Nigeria. He highlighted the essential role that these institutions play in facilitating access to finance for entrepreneurs, particularly in underserved markets. “Our partner financial institutions have been instrumental in providing the necessary support to SMEs, which are vital for economic growth and job creation,” Okpanachi stated.
The awards ceremony featured various categories, including Best Performance, Most Innovative PFI, and Outstanding Contribution to Financial Inclusion. Each award aimed to recognize institutions that have excelled in their efforts to promote entrepreneurship and enhance the financial landscape in Nigeria.
In his keynote address, Okpanachi emphasized the importance of partnerships in achieving the DBN’s mission. He noted that collaboration with PFIs has enabled the bank to reach more businesses and communities, ultimately fostering a more inclusive economy. “Together, we can create sustainable solutions that uplift our communities and drive our nation forward,” he added.
Strengthening Financial Inclusion Initiatives
The event also served as a platform for discussing future strategies to enhance financial inclusion in Nigeria. Panel discussions featured industry experts and stakeholders who shared insights on innovative approaches to financing and supporting SMEs. Topics included the use of technology to improve access to financial services and strategies to increase awareness of available funding options.
Furthermore, the DBN announced plans to expand its outreach programs, aiming to engage more PFIs and encourage them to adopt inclusive lending practices. The bank is committed to providing training and resources to enhance the capacity of its partner institutions, ensuring they can effectively serve the growing number of entrepreneurs seeking financial assistance.
The ceremony concluded with a commitment from both DBN and its partner institutions to work together toward a more robust financial ecosystem. As Nigeria continues to face economic challenges, the role of PFIs remains crucial in providing the support and resources needed for SMEs to thrive.
In summary, the DBN Service Ambassadors’ Awards Ceremony highlighted the vital contributions of partner financial institutions in promoting financial inclusion and supporting entrepreneurship in Nigeria. By recognizing their efforts, the DBN aims to foster stronger partnerships that will ultimately lead to sustainable economic growth and development across the country.
