By Ayomide Otitoju
Access Bank PLC, a subsidiary of Access Holdings PLC, has been named THISDAY Global Bank of the Year for 2024, recognizing its outstanding contributions to the global banking industry. Additionally, Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, Chairman of Access Holdings, was honored with the prestigious THISDAY Titan of the Year award for his exceptional impact on the banking sector.
The awards were presented at the THISDAY Awards 2025, held at Eko Hotels & Suites in Victoria Island, Lagos. Access Bank triumphed over African Export-Import Bank (AFREXIM) and United Bank for Africa (UBA) to secure the top honor. The event marked the 30th anniversary of THISDAY Newspapers and the 12th anniversary of Arise News Channel, under the theme, “When the Going Gets Tough… The Tough Get Rewarded.”
Access Bank’s recognition was attributed to its strategic leadership, rapid expansion, and commitment to innovation and sustainability. The bank was also lauded for its leadership in digital banking, having received multiple accolades, including the 2024 Digital Jurist Award for Best Digital Bank.
Beyond digital advancements, Access Bank’s dedication to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles was acknowledged, earning it the 2024 Euromoney Award for Best Bank for ESG in Nigeria and Ghana. With a growing international footprint in the United Kingdom, Ghana, the United Arab Emirates, China, and several African nations, the bank continues to solidify its position as a key player in global banking.
Access Bank’s technological innovations, such as Facepay, Access Closa, the AccessMore mobile app, and the Africa Fintech Foundry, further establish it as a leader in banking advancements.
In his acceptance speech, Access Bank’s Managing Director and CEO, Roosevelt Ogbonna, expressed gratitude for the recognition. He stated, “This award represents 30 years of commitment to doing things differently and building on the legacy of industry pioneers like Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede and Herbert Wigwe. We are grateful to our board, management, customers, and stakeholders who have supported us throughout this journey. This award is for you.”
Similarly, Aig-Imoukhuede, honored as a THISDAY Titan of the Year, reflected on his career, recalling his early connection with THISDAY founder, Prince Obaigbena. “In 1991, Prince Obaigbena told me that anyone fortunate enough to manage his account would one day become a bank managing director. I am thankful that God fulfilled that vision,” he remarked.
The ceremony, attended by dignitaries from both the public and private sectors, celebrated excellence, innovation, and leadership across industries and the political landscape.
