Managing Director, Providus Bank, Mr. Walter Akpani, who spoke at the bank’s 4th Non-Oil Export Summit in Lagos, highlighted the financial institution’s strategic focus on enhancing Nigeria’s trade landscape. .
The summit, themed “Non-Oil Export – The Past, The Present and The Future,” builds upon the successes of previous editions held in late 2022 and throughout 2023. Akpani explained that the event serves as a platform for collaboration with key stakeholders across various sectors, including agribusiness, mining, metals and African fashion—areas pivotal to Nigeria’s non-oil export potential.
Akpani, who was represented by the bank’s Chief Risk Officer, Mr. Olugbile Erinwusi, highlighted several initiatives aimed at bolstering export activities, including tailored trade support services, streamlined processing of necessary export documentation and the establishment of a dedicated export desk for advisory and financing solutions. Notably, the bank is also implementing concessions on foreign exchange charges to enhance profitability for exporters.
He commended importers eager to pivot towards export activities, stating, “We remain committed to providing all supports within our reach.” This sentiment reflects Providus Bank’s broader strategy to lead in the export banking sector while aligning with Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) objectives for sustainable economic growth.
The summit featured insights from Aliyu Bonu Sheriff, Special Assistant to the President on Export Expansion, who noted that the Federal Government has prioritized creating an enabling environment for exporters through reforms aimed at streamlining processes and improving infrastructure at critical ports. Sheriff announced plans for a national export seminar in early 2025 to further engage stakeholders in advancing Nigeria’s export landscape.