The Access Bank UK DIFC Branch sponsored the opening panel at the 4th Annual International Conference by Africa Legal Network (ALN) that took place on 4th and 5th October 2017 at The Park Hyatt in Dubai. His Excellency Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, UAE Minister for Culture & Knowledge Development, was the Guest of Honour and provided the keynote address. Former President of the Republic of Nigeria, H.E. Olusegun Obasanjo, along with a line-up of internationally-renowned speakers, addressed the opening panel entitled “Paths to Realising Africa’s Potential”.
With this year’s event witnessing the attendance of more than 300 delegates, the forum offered investors and other stakeholders interested in Africa an avenue for dialogue on topics significant to Africa and the Gulf. Amongst the attendees were several banks including The Access Bank UK DIFC Branch a licensed, fully functional Branch, who was present to serve potential investors and existing customers looking to trade from Asia to Africa.
Speaking about the vital role that banks play in financing trade between the region and Africa, Jamie Simmonds, Chief Executive Officer/Managing Director of The Access Bank UK said, “Due to the growing urban population in Africa, and particularly in Nigeria and the multiple needs that come with this growth the country provides an excellent opportunity for individuals and businesses to invest in this area. We work with our customers as trusted partners to facilitate the growth of their businesses through the provision of trade finance and commercial banking facilities in the Regions.”
Even in the current global economic scenario, the World Bank has recently reaffirmed its support for the mining industry in Nigeria.1 In addition, the Nigerian agriculture and food production sectors have also shown great promise as potential investment opportunities. The event discussed these industries in detail, as well as other sectors, regions and opportunities in Africa that offered the highest investment potential.
Commenting on the their participation at Annual International Conference by ALN, Rola Seifeddine, Senior Executive Officer/Head of DIFC Branch said, “This is one of the most highly regarded conferences in the region for investors looking to Africa. Last year, we had a very successful partnership with ALN conference, and decided to participate for a second time this year. With our DIFC Branch now serving as a gateway for investors in this region, we are confident that UAE businesses will be keen to invest in Nigeria and with our heritage and expertise in the market we are well positioned to be the partner to work with.”
