Banking
Fitch: Our Risk Management Framework Remains Robust—Afreximbank
By Adedapo Adesanya
The African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) has reaffirming its strong financial position, rigorous risk management framework, and adherence to international reporting standards following issues around Fitch Ratings report.
Recall that Fitch Ratings, in its June 4, 2025, assessment, downgraded the bank’s credit rating one place above junk, as well as its substantial provisions on sovereign exposures, which reduce potential financial risks.
However, Fitch acknowledged Afreximbank’s strong capitalization, including its strong equity to assets and guarantees ratio and excellent internal capital generation.
The issue has led to a mild row between the African Union and the agency, with plans to launch an Africa-focused credit rating agency now in focus.
In the statement on Tuesday, Afreximbank emphasized that its financial reporting strictly follows International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), including IFRS 9, which governs loan classification and non-performing loan (NPL) assessments.
The bank clarified that while Fitch’s NPL definition differs from its forward-looking approach, its methodology is fully detailed in its 2024 Financial Statements and independently verified by external auditors.
Fitch’s negative outlook was attributed to concerns over potential sovereign debt restructuring involving Afreximbank’s member states.
However, the bank firmly stated that its establishment treaty—signed by all 53 participating African states—prohibits it from engaging in sovereign debt restructuring negotiations.
“Afreximbank would like to reaffirm that it is not participating in debt restructuring negotiations related to any of its member countries,” the statement read. “To do so would be inconsistent with the bank establishment treaty, which governs our operations.”
Fitch also recognized Afreximbank’s low concentration risk and strong liquidity position, rating its treasury assets as high quality, with the lender reiterating that its risk management framework remains robust, supported by its solid capitalization and prudent financial policies.
“Afreximbank remains steadfast in its mission to drive trade-led growth, economic development, and macroeconomic stability across Africa.
“Despite external assessments, the Bank expressed confidence in its financial resilience, governance standards, and unwavering commitment to its member states,” it added.
“Our financial strength, governance, and dedication to Africa’s prosperity remain unshaken,” the statement concluded. “We will continue to support our member countries in overcoming economic challenges while advancing sustainable development.”
By Aduragbemi Omiyale
Pioneer non-interest financial institution in Nigeria, Jaiz Bank Plc, has announced a change to its brand identity, adopting new colours and logo to reflect its vision for the future.
In a statement signed by its Company Secretary, Mr Mohammed Shehu, it was disclosed that the new colours are deep blue, yellow, and grey.
In the statement, Jaiz Bank noted that, “The rebranding reflects our renewed commitment to empowering individuals, businesses, and communities with smarter financial solutions.
The Islamic lender, which said it’s committed to innovation, trust, and customer-centric banking, said, “The new brand represents more than just a colour and logo change; it is a reflection of the bank’s evolution and aspirations building a future-ready bank that is agile, inclusive, and deeply connected to the needs of our customers.”
“The new colours and logo represent Trust, Stability, Professionalism, Energy, Optimism, Visibility, Balance, and Sophistication,” it emphasised.
While “inviting stakeholders, partners, and customers to join us in celebrating this exciting new chapter, Jaiz Bank noted that rebranding became effective today, Tuesday, August 19, 2025.”
It described the “strategic transformation” as a “significant milestone in the bank’s journey to better serve its customers, embrace digital innovation, and expand its footprint in the financial services industry.”
By Modupe Gbadeyanka
For its consistent commitment to the highest levels of data privacy, security, and compliance, Access Bank Plc has been awarded the ISO/IEC 27701:2019 Certification for Privacy Information Management Systems.
The scope of the certification encompasses the management, processing, and protection of Personally Identifiable Information (PII) related to customers, employees, and third parties across the entire organisation.
It covers all physical and digital assets, processes, and information systems engaged in the collection, storage, processing, sharing, and disposal of PII throughout the bank.
The Statement of Applicability, version 15.0, dated March 27, 2025, demonstrates Access Bank’s role as both a PII Controller and a PII Processor, ensuring a robust framework for safeguarding sensitive information at every stage of its lifecycle.
The certification is referenced under ISMS Certificate, No. IS 583140 and affirms that the lender operates a Privacy Information Management System (PIMS), which fully complies with the rigorous requirements of ISO/IEC 27701:2019.
It reflects the bank’s proactive approach to privacy management, its investment in state-of-the-art security infrastructure, and its commitment to building trust with stakeholders and the broader community.
“Achieving the ISO/IEC 27701:2019 certification is a testament to Access Bank’s proactive approach to information security, Data Protection and Privacy, which reflects our commitment to safeguarding the trust our customers place in us, and our culture of continuous improvement.
“It demonstrates our dedication to adopting global best practices and reinforces our position as a leader in privacy information management across the financial services sector.” The Chief Information Security Officer/Data Protection Officer of Access Bank, Favour Femi-Oyewole, said.
Also, the Executive Director for IT and Digitisation at Access Holdings Plc, Lanre Bamisebi, said, “Securing the ISO/IEC 27701:2019 certification marks a pivotal milestone in Access Bank’s journey to embed privacy and data protection at the heart of our digital strategy. It also underscores the strategic investments we continue to make in digital innovation.
“This achievement reflects our unwavering commitment to building resilient systems that not only meet global standards but also anticipate the evolving expectations of our customers and regulators. It is the result of deliberate cross-functional collaboration and a forward-thinking approach to governance and trust.”
By Modupe Gbadeyanka
Stanbic IBTC Bank has reiterated its commitment to inclusive growth, especially by providing support to female business owners because of their vital role in Nigeria’s economy.
The bank in a statement said it created the Blue Blossom Account in recognition of the positive impact of women entrepreneurs in society, as they drive innovation, create jobs, and build resilient businesses.
It stressed that focusing on women-led businesses helps to build a more inclusive and vibrant economy. Supporting women is not just the right thing to do—it’s a smart investment in Nigeria’s future, the lender said.
Stanbic IBTC Bank noted that the Blue Blossom Account was designed to help women overcome common financing challenges, as it provides easier access to business finance in line with the Central Bank of Nigeria’s Sustainable Banking Principles.
Women business owners enjoy zero current account maintenance (CAM) fees, concessionary loan rates, and access to business clinic sessions. These benefits make the Blue Blossom Account more than just a product—it’s a practical tool for growth.
Stanbic IBTC Bank said it also offers lending solutions like SME Lite and SME EZ Cash. These options help women-led businesses secure working capital, fund expansion, or invest in new opportunities. With flexible terms and accessible financing, the bank is assisting more women grow their businesses.
Support goes beyond finance. Through its SME Collab customer value proposition, the bank offers training and curates events to help women manage their businesses and connect with other entrepreneurs.
A key highlight is the Bloom Weekend, an empowerment event that brings together thousands of women entrepreneurs, professionals, and leaders. The event features masterclasses, financial advisory, and a vibrant trade fair where women showcase their businesses. It also provides an avenue for networking and having fun.
Digital tools also play a role. With POS terminals, the Enterprise Online internet banking platform, and the SME Mobile App, women entrepreneurs can manage payments and cash flow more efficiently. These solutions make it easier to run a business and reach more customers.
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