Stanbic IBTC Bank has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the growth of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) through a strategic partnership with the Abia State Government aimed at creating a more enabling environment for businesses to thrive. The collaboration was announced during the Nigeria Business Summit Regional Tour held in Aba, where entrepreneurs participated in business enlightenment sessions, funding masterclasses, enterprise advisory services, and capacity-building programmes.
Speaking at the event, Abia State Commissioner for Industry and SMEs, Mazi Michael Enyinnaya Akpara, said the state government is implementing deliberate reforms to build one of Nigeria’s most competitive enterprise ecosystems. He revealed that the state is developing a comprehensive MSME Policy and a statewide MSME Directory to improve business visibility and attract investment opportunities.
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 indigenous businesses, and position Abia as a leading destination for quality local production. He stressed that partnerships with private sector organisations such as Stanbic IBTC are essential to achieving sustainable enterprise growth.
Chief Executive of Stanbic IBTC Holdings, Chuma Nwokocha, said businesses require access to finance, market intelligence, and strategic partnerships to scale successfully. He noted that the bank will continue to support MSMEs through value chain finance, structured lending, and advisory services aimed at helping businesses grow into resilient enterprises.
Also speaking, Executive Director of Business and Commercial Banking at Stanbic IBTC Bank, Remy Osuagwu, said the bank is adopting a nationwide approach to delivering practical business support by bringing financial solutions and enterprise development initiatives closer to entrepreneurs across the country.
