Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma, has reiterated his administration’s commitment to strengthening economic development as he commissioned the new Access Bank Plc Regional Office in Owerri.
Speaking during the ceremony, Governor Uzodimma emphasized the importance of robust financial institutions in driving economic growth, noting that this informed the state government’s swift approval of the location for the bank’s new regional headquarters.
The newly commissioned facility is named after renowned economist and business icon, Sir Pascal Gabriel Dozie, in recognition of his contributions to indigenous enterprise development and financial inclusion.
Governor Uzodimma stated that every transaction conducted in the new office would translate into a measurable economic impact for the state.
The governor also commended Access Bank Plc for achieving the milestone and paid tribute to its late Managing Director, Dr. Herbert Wigwe, acknowledging his pivotal role in initiating the partnership with the Imo State Government.
He expressed optimism that the collaboration will continue to yield mutual benefits for the bank and the people of Imo State.
In her welcome address, the Deputy Managing Director of Access Bank Plc, Chizoma Okoli, described the bank’s growth as a story rooted in vision, resilience, and unwavering commitment to service.
She said naming the regional office after Sir Pascal Dozie was fitting, given his foundational and transformational impact on Nigeria’s financial sector. “By naming this branch after him, we celebrate a legacy that continues to inspire excellence, innovation, and service,” she noted.
Okoli praised Governor Uzodimma for his strong support for the private sector, stating that his leadership has encouraged enterprise development, strengthened financial inclusion, and boosted investor confidence.
She also commended the governor’s efforts in the areas of infrastructure, security, and ease of doing business, which she said have created an enabling environment for institutions like Access Bank.
The DMD disclosed that Access Bank currently operates 17 branches across Imo State. With the unveiling of the new regional office, bringing the number to 18 in the state capital, the bank is expanding its footprint and reaffirming its commitment to serving individuals, SMEs, corporate organisations and public-sector institutions across Imo and neighbouring states.
She added that the new regional office was strategically designed to deliver enhanced banking services, stating: “Our goal is to bring world-class financial services closer to our customers and to serve them better than ever before.”