The Access Bank UK Ltd Strengthens UK–Nigeria Ties During State Visit Celebrations

The Access Bank UK Ltd Strengthens UK–Nigeria Ties During State Visit Celebrations

The Access Bank UK Ltd is proud to have played a prominent role in celebrating the recent Nigerian state visit to the United Kingdom – an occasion that underscored the deepening diplomatic, cultural, and economic ties between both nations.

His Majesty King Charles III formally welcomed The President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Mr Bola Ahmed Tinubu, during a ceremonial reception that reflected the strength and heritage of UK–Nigeria relations. Marked by a Royal Salute in Windsor and at the Tower of London, and the playing of the Nigerian National Anthem, the visit brought together senior leaders from government, business, and finance to reinforce shared ambitions for sustainable growth and economic partnership.

For The Access Bank UK Ltd, the State Visit represents more than a ceremonial occasion – it is a strategic moment that aligns closely with the Bank’s purpose to make a positive impact in Africa. As a key participant in this evolving relationship, the Bank continues to play an active role in enabling investment flows and supporting businesses operating across both
regions.

As a Bank committed to fostering international connectivity, The Access Bank UK Ltd was honoured to sponsor the UK–Nigeria Enhanced Trade and Investment Partnership (ETIP) Reception, held at Kensington Palace on 16 March as part of the UK-Nigeria State Visit. Representing the Bank were Jamie Simmonds, CEO and Managing Director, David Charters, Chairman and Independent Non-Executive Director, Julie Soyinka-Sonuga, Head of Commercial Banking and Desiree Cline-Thomas, Deputy Head of Trade Finance. The prestigious event convened key stakeholders across both markets, providing a platform to strengthen commercial relationships and explore new opportunities for bilateral collaboration.

Our involvement in the reception reflects The Access Bank UK Ltd’s core values of excellence, innovation, and professionalism as well as our continued commitment to driving international expansion and strengthening economic bridges between Africa and the wider global economy. The UK remains a critical gateway within the Access Group’s global network, enabling customers to navigate and succeed in increasingly interconnected markets. 

The Access Bank UK Ltd’s presence during this pivotal moment was further amplified through a feature in the Financial Times Newspaper. The feature highlighted the strength of UK–Nigeria connectivity, showcasing key statistics that demonstrate the scale of trade, investment flows, and economic collaboration between the two markets. This strategic placement reinforces the Bank’s position at the centre of facilitating financial linkages and supporting businesses operating across borders. 

As momentum builds from the State Visit, The Access Bank UK Ltd remains dedicated to unlocking opportunities, supporting customers, and strengthening the enduring partnership between the United Kingdom and Nigeria.

President of Nigeria Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and His Majesty King Charles III attend an audience in the Grand Corridor at Windsor Castle (Photographer Aaron Chown/ Alamy).
Desiree Cline-Thomas, Deputy Head of Trade Finance and Julie Soyinka-Sonuga, Head of Commercial Banking of The Access Bank UK Limited at the UK–Nigeria Enhanced Trade and Investment Partnership (ETIP) Reception. (Photographer Aaron Chown/ Alamy).