By Ayomide Otitoju
Access Bank has restated its dedication to strengthening_ Africa–Caribbean economic collaboration, with particular emphasis on youth and diaspora participation, at the ongoing Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF) 2025.
Speaking during a session themed “The Global Africa We Want: Business Collaboration Without Borders”, Sunmbo Olatunji, Chief Executive Officer of Access Bank’s Caribbean Expansion, said Africa must leverage its demographic advantage, strategic resources, and diaspora linkages to chart a sustainable growth path.
“The Global Africa we want is one without borders in spirit, vision, or opportunity — an Africa where our youth, diaspora, and private sector drive collaboration that positions us as a central player in the global economy,” Olatunji stated.
She identified agriculture and food security, creative and cultural industries, sustainable tourism, and technology-driven innovation as sectors with the greatest potential for cross-border partnerships.
“Africa and the Caribbean are natural partners. By combining Africa’s scale with Caribbean expertise and diaspora networks, we can unlock agricultural value chains, expand cultural exports, and build robust tourism and digital innovation ecosystems,” she added.
Olatunji also stressed the importance of private sector involvement in driving resilience and inclusive growth, noting that financial institutions must create platforms that simplify trade, facilitate remittances, and empower entrepreneurs.
“At Access Bank, we see ourselves not just as bankers, but as connectors of opportunities. Our Caribbean expansion demonstrates our commitment to linking Africa’s dynamic economies with diaspora wealth and expertise, creating a future of shared prosperity,” she said.
Organised by the African Export–Import Bank (Afreximbank) in collaboration with the African Union, IATF 2025 is a premier platform designed to expand intra-African trade, strengthen Africa–Caribbean relations, and showcase investment opportunities across the continent.
