Accion MfB Partners DBN to Empower SMEs at 2025 Customer Forum Event

Accion Microfinance Bank, a reputable institution in Nigeria’s microfinance sector, recently conducted its first Customer Forum event of 2025 in collaboration with the Development Bank of Nigeria (DBN).

The event was held virtually centered around the theme “Unlocking Opportunities for Growth” and gathered industry experts, entrepreneurs, and key stakeholders to discuss opportunities for business growth, financial sustainability, and access to funding in an evolving economic landscape.

Setting the stage for the insightful discussions, the Ag. Head of Marketing Communications, Anita Oguni, extended gratitude to all customers for their attendance and underscored Accion MfB’s commitment to empowering businesses, entrepreneurs, and individuals with the necessary financial solutions for sustainable growth.

Marking a key highlight of the event, the interactive session featured distinguished personalities, including the MD/CEO of Accion MfB, Taiwo Joda; Chief Operating Officer of DBN, Mr. Bonaventure Okhaimo; the Chief Commercial Officer of Accion MfB, Stephen Olalere; and the Chief Digital Officer of Accion MfB, Paul Ehiagbonare.

Mr. Bonaventure led an engaging discussion focused on SME development, access to finance, and maximising financial technology to drive business scalability. He emphasised the need to navigate challenges posed by escalating commodity prices and interest rates: “We need to find a way to continue to use these platforms to develop MSMEs and enable them to grow themselves up and, at the same time, grow the economy.”

Additionally, Paul Ehiagbonare unveiled the upgraded features of the AccionMonie app, stating, “This is a completely re-engineered and redesigned app with enhanced functionality and features that were not possible before, making onboarding seamless and secure. We have introduced the NIN and facial verification features to provide customers with added security. Based on feedback from our previous Customer Forum event, customers can now conveniently transfer up to N10 million in a single transaction, streamlining their banking experience.”

He further elaborated on the app’s new capabilities, “The app now offers quick loans within 10 minutes, a refer and earn option, as well as target and locked savings features, catering to the diverse financial needs of our customers. With these enhancements, we aim to provide a more streamlined and efficient digital banking experience that empowers our customers to manage their finances easily and conveniently.”

This event served as a valuable platform for customers to voice their issues and concerns, facilitating constructive dialogue and collaboration. Attendees were also encouraged to share their innovative ideas.

In reaffirming the bank’s dedication to driving economic growth and financial inclusion, Mr Taiwo Joda emphasised: “DBN is collaborating with Accion Microfinance Bank to develop a gender-focused loan exclusively for women, marking a significant enhancement in our loan features. This initiative aims to equip women with the necessary financial resources to thrive and expand.”

The success of the Customer Forum highlights Accion Microfinance Bank’s commitment to empowering businesses and individuals through financial inclusion. By engaging with stakeholders, the bank continues to gather valuable insights to support sustainable economic growth.