Access Bank’s Maiden ATC: A Game-Changer for Investors and African Trade

By Enam Obiosio

As Africa’s trade landscape evolves, Access Bank Plc is making a bold statement with its first-ever Africa Trade Conference (ATC), set to take place on March 12, 2025, in Cape Town, South Africa.

This landmark event, themed ‘Empowering Africa Through Trade, Innovation, and Sustainable Growth’, not only reaffirms the bank’s leadership in trade finance but also presents a compelling case for investors looking at the continent’s future growth opportunities.

By spearheading a high-profile trade event of this magnitude, Access Bank is positioning itself as a sensitive corporate organisation in African trade and financial integration. The conference is set to attract top executives from international banks, policymakers, and Development Finance Institutions (DFIs), reflecting the bank’s deep influence in shaping Africa’s trade narrative.

With a presence in 24 countries, including 16 in Africa, Access Bank’s role in bridging the continent’s $81 billion trade finance gap cannot be overstated. The bank’s Group Managing Director/CEO, Mr.Roosevelt Ogbonna, highlighted the strategic significance of the event, stating, “The Africa Trade Conference represents a crucial step in redefining Africa’s trade potential. By creating platforms for dialogue, innovation, and actionable solutions, Access Bank is enabling African businesses to connect and thrive in the global economy.”

One of the major highlights of ATC will be its focus on the Africa Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA)—an ambitious initiative aimed at removing trade barriers and integrating African economies into global value chains. Access Bank’s extensive presence in Africa uniquely positions it to facilitate inter- and intra-African trade, reinforcing its market strength and investment appeal.

“The Africa Trade Conference is a platform to not only address Africa’s trade challenges but to champion the continent’s opportunities,” said Seyi Kumapayi, Executive Director, African Subsidiaries, Access Bank. “Through strategic partnerships and tailored financial solutions built on the ethos of sustainability, we are paving the way for Africa’s businesses to take their place on the global stage.”

The ATC agenda will cover key topics such as digitisation in global trade, overcoming trade barriers, and sustainable trade practices—themes that align with global investor priorities in Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG). With investors increasingly scrutinising financial institutions for their commitment to innovation and sustainability, Access Bank’s emphasis on these elements strengthens its long-term market position.

By showcasing innovative financing models, trade digitisation, and sustainable business solutions, the bank is enhancing its ESG credentials—a crucial factor for attracting institutional and impact investors. ATC will also serve as a platform for unveiling new trade financing solutions, giving investors insights into how the bank plans to monetise Africa’s trade opportunities.

Access Bank’s ability to attract global financial institutions, policymakers, and industry captains to ATC highlights its growing influence in shaping trade policy and regulatory alignment. Investors recognise that such engagements help mitigate trade risks, enhance regulatory compliance, and create a more stable investment environment.

Furthermore, the conference offers Access Bank an opportunity to secure strategic partnerships, attract new clients, and foster syndicated financing opportunities, all of which contribute to revenue growth and long-term shareholder value.

For investors, the ATC is not just an event—it is a window into Access Bank’s vision for the future. As the bank facilitates connections between African businesses and international markets, it strengthens its trade finance portfolio and operational efficiency.

By addressing the complexities of African trade and positioning itself as the go-to financial partner for trade finance solutions, Access Bank is paving the way for sustained growth, increased profitability, and expanded market influence.

The Access Bank’s Africa Trade Conference (ATC) is more than just a forum—it is also a bold investment in Africa’s future and a strategic move to solidify the bank’s market position. As the event unfolds, investors will be keenly watching how Access Bank leverages this platform to drive new business, strengthen partnerships, and create value in Africa’s dynamic trade ecosystem.

With its commitment to innovation, sustainability, and financial inclusion, Access Bank is not only shaping the future of African trade but also reinforcing its appeal as a high-value investment opportunity in the global financial landscape.