Stanbic IBTC Bank
Abayomi Susan
Stanbic IBTC Holdings has partnered with the Anambra State Government to strengthen the growth, competitiveness and trade capacity of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) across the South-East through the Nigeria Business Summit Regional Tour held in Onitsha.
The summit, organised in collaboration with the Anambra State Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Trade, brought together government officials, business executives, trade associations, development partners and entrepreneurs to discuss practical strategies for business sustainability, economic growth and increased participation in both local and international markets.
Held on Wednesday, July 29, 2026, the event focused on equipping businesses with the knowledge, partnerships and financial solutions needed to scale their operations and seize emerging market opportunities.
Speaking at the summit, the Anambra State Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, Honourable Nonso Chukwuma Ebonwu, emphasised the importance of stronger collaboration between government, financial institutions and the private sector in creating an enabling environment for businesses to thrive.
According to him, sustainable economic development depends on effective public-private partnerships, noting that financial institutions such as Stanbic IBTC play a critical role not only by providing access to finance but also through business advisory services, capacity development and the expertise required for long-term business growth.
Recognising Onitsha’s position as one of Nigeria’s foremost commercial centres, discussions at the summit centred on access to finance, enterprise development, business sustainability and opportunities for market expansion.
Stanbic IBTC’s Trade Team also provided participants with valuable insights into export and trade opportunities available within the South-East’s manufacturing and distribution value chains. The session highlighted practical strategies to improve business competitiveness, enhance market access and unlock new avenues for growth.
Speaking on Stanbic IBTC’s commitment to supporting Nigerian enterprises, the Chief Executive of Stanbic IBTC Holdings, Chuma Nwokocha, reaffirmed the organisation’s dedication to empowering businesses.
He noted that businesses remain key drivers of economic development, employment generation and innovation, adding that supporting their growth aligns with the institution’s purpose of driving Africa’s growth through sustainable financial solutions, strategic partnerships and innovative business support platforms.
Also speaking, the Executive Director, Business and Commercial Banking at Stanbic IBTC Bank, Remy Osuagwu, reiterated the bank’s unwavering commitment to helping businesses succeed.
He explained that through initiatives such as the Nigeria Business Summit Regional Tour, Stanbic IBTC continues to connect entrepreneurs with the knowledge, networks and financial solutions required to expand their businesses and compete effectively in an increasingly dynamic business environment.
The summit further showcased Stanbic IBTC’s commitment to providing businesses with access to funding, industry insights and strategic partnerships that support sustainable growth. The initiative aligns with the objectives of the bank’s Enterprise Banking division, led by Olajumoke Bello, as the institution continues to deepen engagement with MSMEs and growth-oriented businesses across Nigeria.
The Onitsha edition builds on the success of previous Nigeria Business Summit Regional Tour events held in Katsina, Aba and Ibadan. Through the initiative, Stanbic IBTC continues to collaborate with public and private sector stakeholders to empower entrepreneurs with practical knowledge, valuable partnerships and tailored business solutions that drive long-term growth and economic development.
