Access Bank Gets $30m Loan for Underserved MSMEs

By Adedapo Adesanya 

A Swedish development finance institution with the mission to contribute to poverty reduction through sustainable investments in developing countries, Swedfund, has invested $30 million in Access Bank Nigeria Plc to reach underserved MSMEs (micro, small and medium enterprises) at scale.

According to a statement, the funds will provide long-term capital and capacity-building to unbanked and under-banked companies in Nigeria. The investment is expected to support sustainable private sector development and inclusive growth.

“Nigeria, with a population of 230 million, has an unemployment rate of a staggering 33 per cent

“Additionally, over half of the rapidly growing population is below the age of 30, which further exacerbates the need for job creation and workforce development.

“As Nigeria also copes with a multitude of crises, including insecurity, food shortages and inflation, the resilience and power of MSMEs is critical to driving sustainable development and reducing poverty,” the statement said.

The Regional Director of West Africa for Swedfund, Ms Kitanha Toure, said, “Swedfund’s investment aids in advancing sustainable private sector development, encouraging inclusive growth, and expanding access to finance. Access Bank, known for its strong market presence and with a committed MSME strategy, serves as an effective partner to reach MSMEs in need of financing in Nigeria.”

The statement added further that, “Access Bank is systemically important and well-positioned to reach a significant number of MSMEs in Nigeria.

“Swedfund’s investment will contribute to direct and indirect job creation and other tax-generating activities as well as improved access to finance for rural and underserved groups, female- and youth-owned companies.

“Access Bank is eligible to meet the 2X Criteria, a global baseline standard for gender finance, and is recognised as the best SME bank for women entrepreneurs in Africa.”

The loan is part of a syndicate led by the Dutch development finance institution, FMO, with a total value of $295 million. The syndicate consists of other Nordic and European development finance institutions such as BII, BIO, Finnfund och Norfund.”