Stanbic IBTC Bank has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the growth of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) across Nigeria through strategic partnerships aimed at creating stronger business environments and expanding opportunities for entrepreneurs.
The bank made the pledge during the Aba edition of its Nigeria Business Summit Regional Tour, organised in collaboration with the Abia State Government. The event featured business enlightenment sessions, funding masterclasses, enterprise advisory services and capacity-building programmes designed to equip entrepreneurs with the tools needed to grow their businesses.
Speaking at the summit, Abia State Commissioner for Industry and SMEs, Mazi Michael Enyinnaya Akpara, outlined the state government’s plans to strengthen its enterprise ecosystem through targeted reforms and new initiatives.
According to him, the government is developing a comprehensive MSME policy that will provide a structured framework for business development across the state. He also disclosed that authorities are working on a statewide MSME directory to improve the visibility of businesses and enhance their access to investment opportunities.
Akpara further announced preparations for the National Brands Development and Made-in-Nigeria Project, also known as Abia Expo 2026, which is intended to promote locally manufactured products and position the state as a leading hub for indigenous production.
“Abia State is intentionally building an ecosystem where businesses can start, grow, compete and access markets both locally and internationally,” he said, stressing that partnerships with organisations such as Stanbic IBTC remain vital to achieving sustainable economic growth.
Stanbic IBTC Holdings Chief Executive, Chuma Nwokocha, said the success of businesses depends on more than access to finance, noting that entrepreneurs also require market intelligence and connections that enable expansion.
“Businesses do not scale in isolation. They scale when they have access to capital, intelligence and platforms that connect them to wider markets,” Nwokocha said.
He added that the financial institution intends to accelerate the growth of small businesses through value-chain financing, structured lending and advisory services that can help promising enterprises become more resilient and competitive.
According to Nwokocha, the bank will continue to invest in sectors expected to shape Nigeria’s economic future while deepening support for entrepreneurs across the country.
Also speaking at the event, Executive Director of Business and Commercial Banking at Stanbic IBTC Bank, Remy Osuagwu, said the organisation was adopting a more deliberate nationwide strategy to ensure business support reaches entrepreneurs where they operate.
The summit forms part of Stanbic IBTC’s broader efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s MSME sector by combining financial support with practical guidance, mentorship and strategic partnerships aimed at driving long-term economic development.
