Access Bank PLC Named West African Bankers’ Association’s (WABA) Corporate Bank of the Year
Access Bank PLC, the leading subsidiary of Access Holdings PLC, has been named the West African Bankers’ Association’s Corporate Bank of the Year 2023, recognizing its profound impact on corporate banking. Furthermore, Titus Johnny, Head of Financial Control at Access Bank Sierra Leone Limited, received the prestigious West African Bankers’ Association’s Employee of the Year 2023 award for his invaluable contributions to the banking industry in Sierra Leone.
Access Bank’s commitment to excellence was recognized at the inaugural West African Bankers’ Award Night, where it triumphed over local and international banks to receive this distinguished accolade. The ceremony, held on February 1, 2025, in Freetown, Sierra Leone, also marked the 44th anniversary of the West African Bankers’ Association.
Recognizing Access Bank’s outstanding achievements, WABA lauded the Bank’s commitment to corporate leadership, innovation, and excellence in the banking industry. The Association also commended Access Bank’s role in driving economic growth and transforming the financial landscape across Africa and beyond.
Access Bank’s recognition as the Best Corporate Bank of the Year 2023 reflects its leadership in providing tailored financial solutions that drive business growth across Africa. The Bank has strengthened its position in key industries, offering innovative treasury services, structured trade finance, and liquidity management solutions. Access Bank continues to empower businesses. Through cutting-edge digital innovations, strategic partnerships, and a commitment to excellence, the bank remains a trusted financial partner for corporates across the continent.
From humble beginnings to becoming Africa’s largest bank by customer base, Access Bank now serves over 60 million customers across 3 continents in 24 markets, including 16 African countries,, with a global presence spanning the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, France, Malta, China, India, Lebanon, and Hong Kong, where it proudly holds the distinction of being the first African bank to operate.
Commenting on the award, Ganiyu Sanni, Managing Director of Access Bank Sierra Leone, said upon receiving the honor:
“It is with great honor that I accept this award on behalf of the MD/CEO of Access Bank PLC, Roosevelt Ogbonna. We stand together to celebrate not only the achievements of the Bank but also the values and vision that have propelled us forward. This achievement is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire team.”
Dignitaries from the banking sector in West Africa, including the former Governor of the Central Bank of The Gambia, the Governor of the Bank of Sierra Leone, the Minister of Finance, and other influential figures, graced the grand event, which shone a spotlight on excellence, leadership, and groundbreaking innovation across the industry.
About Access Bank PLC
Access Bank PLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Access Holdings PLC, is a leading full-service commercial bank operating through a network of more than 700 branches and service outlets spanning 4 continents, 24 countries and over 60 million customers. The Bank employs over 28,000 people in its operations in Africa and Europe, with representative offices in China, Lebanon, India, Hong Kong and the UAE.
Access Bank’s parent company, Access Holdings Plc, has been listed on the Nigerian Stock Exchange since 1998. The Bank is a diversified financial institution which combines a strong retail customer franchise and digital platform with deep corporate banking expertise, proven risk management and capital management capabilities. The Bank services its various markets through three key business segments: Corporate and Investment Banking, Commercial Banking, and Retail Banking. The Bank has enjoyed what is arguably Africa’s most successful banking growth trajectory in the last 22 years, becoming one of the continent’s largest retail banks.
As part of its continued growth strategy, Access Bank is focused on mainstreaming sustainable business practices into its operations. The Bank strives to deliver sustainable economic growth that is profitable, environmentally responsible, and socially relevant, helping customers to access more and achieve their dreams.
