Access Bank, firm target SMEs, launch ‘Access Green Energy’

Access Bank Plc in partnership with Asolar Systems Nigeria Limited on Tuesday launched ‘Access Green Energy’. Speaking at the ceremony in Abuja, Victor Etuokwu, Access Bank Pic, Deputy Managing Director, Retail Bank-North, said this would ensure constant electricity for Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Nigeria. The launch was themed, “Advancing environmental sustainability, delivering energy […]

Access Bank Plc in partnership with Asolar Systems Nigeria Limited on Tuesday launched ‘Access Green Energy’.

Speaking at the ceremony in Abuja, Victor Etuokwu, Access Bank Pic, Deputy Managing Director, Retail Bank-North, said this would ensure constant electricity for Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Nigeria.

The launch was themed, “Advancing environmental sustainability, delivering energy solutions, and enhancing financial inclusivity for under-served Nigerians.”

Etuokwu, represented by Regional Director of the Bank, Abuja, Neka Adogu, said the collaboration would also promote financial inclusion in rural areas.

According to him, the initiative not only targets businesses, but the whole nation.

“SME owners currently grapple with substantial expenses related to procuring generators, purchasing fuel, and maintaining power sources.

“Access Bank’s collaboration with Asolar integrates their Access CLOSA Agent Network platform as the digital payment provider, facilitating widespread adoption of digital banking and financial services even in remote areas. This dual approach seeks to bridge the gap between power access and financial inclusion.

“The broader implications of this partnership on economic growth and development, inviting stakeholders to join in sowing the seeds of progress. The collaboration envisions not only empowering SMEs to thrive in an eco-friendly environment but also contributing to a brighter, more sustainable world,” she said.

Chizoba Iheme, Group Head, Financial Inclusion, Access Bank Plc, said the bank has about 300,000 agents across the county to facilitate the distribution.

“Access Bank has about 300,000 agents stationed across the country. This is to help facilitate the distribution of the solar panels and other things involved,” Iheme said.

Hakeem Shagaya, CEO, Asolar Systems Nigeria Limited, said: “Commencing operations in 2018, we were entrusted with the distribution of 20,000 Solar Home Systems (SHS) under the Beyond the Grid project. Today, we proudly stand having distributed over 82,000 SHS, impacting the lives of over 400,000 people across 654 communities in all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.

“With the support of Access Bank, we aim to amplify these numbers, bringing us closer to a future where every Nigerian has access to reliable and sustainable energy.”