Stanbic IBTC Bank has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the growth of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) by strengthening its partnership with the Abia State Government to promote entrepreneurship, improve access to finance and create a more enabling business environment.
The commitment was made during the Nigeria Business Summit Regional Tour held in Aba, organised by Stanbic IBTC in collaboration with the Abia State Government. The summit featured business enlightenment sessions, funding masterclasses, enterprise advisory services and capacity-building programmes aimed at equipping entrepreneurs with the tools needed to grow sustainable businesses.
Speaking at the event, Abia State Commissioner for Industry and SMEs, Mazi Michael Enyinnaya Akpara, said the state government is implementing strategic reforms to build one of Nigeria’s most competitive business ecosystems.
He disclosed that the state is finalising a comprehensive MSME Policy to provide a clear framework for enterprise development, while also developing a statewide MSME Directory to improve business visibility and attract investment.
Akpara also announced plans for the National Brands Development and Made-in-Nigeria Project (Abia Expo 2026), an initiative designed to showcase locally manufactured products, promote Nigerian innovation and position Abia as a leading centre for quality local production.
According to him, the government is creating an environment where businesses can start, grow and compete successfully in both domestic and international markets, noting that partnerships with private sector organisations such as Stanbic IBTC remain critical to achieving that goal.
Speaking on the bank’s commitment to enterprise development, Chief Executive of Stanbic IBTC Holdings, Chuma Nwokocha, said sustainable business growth depends on access to finance, market opportunities and business support services.
He said the bank will continue to empower MSMEs through value chain financing, structured lending and advisory services, helping businesses expand and become more competitive.
Nwokocha added that Stanbic IBTC remains committed to investing in sectors with strong potential to drive Nigeria’s economic growth and create employment opportunities.
Also speaking, Executive Director, Business and Commercial Banking at Stanbic IBTC Bank, Remy Osuagwu, said the bank is adopting a more deliberate nationwide strategy to bring practical business support, financial solutions and advisory services closer to entrepreneurs across Nigeria.
He noted that the initiative reflects Stanbic IBTC’s broader commitment to fostering enterprise development, strengthening small businesses and supporting inclusive economic growth through strategic partnerships.
