Access Bank Champions Youth and Diaspora Collaboration at IATF 2025
Reaffirming Commitment to Africa–Caribbean Growth
Access Bank has once again positioned itself as a leading driver of Africa’s global economic future by championing youth and diaspora-driven collaboration at the Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF) 2025.
Speaking at the event, Sunmbo Olatunji, Chief Executive Officer, The Caribbean Expansion at Access Bank, highlighted the bank’s vision for a unified Africa that connects with the Caribbean and beyond.
“The Global Africa we want is one without borders in spirit, vision, or opportunity,” she said. “It is an Africa where youth, diaspora, and the private sector lead collaborations that make us central players in the global economy.”
Unlocking Strategic Growth Sectors
Olatunji outlined key sectors with significant potential for cross-border growth, including agriculture, food security, creative industries, sustainable tourism, and technology.
“Africa and the Caribbean are natural partners,” she explained. “Combining Africa’s scale with Caribbean expertise and diaspora networks will unlock value chains, export our culture, and create new ecosystems in tourism and digital innovation.”
Her message was clear: Africa’s youthful population and strategic resources must be leveraged to drive inclusive growth and economic resilience.
The Private Sector’s Role in Economic Transformation
Olatunji emphasized that the private sector has a duty to take the lead in creating opportunities for collaboration. She pointed out that financial institutions must do more than provide capital they must build infrastructure for trade, simplify remittances, and enable entrepreneurship.
“At Access Bank, we see ourselves not just as bankers, but as connectors of opportunities,” she said. “Our expansion into the Caribbean reflects our commitment to link Africa’s economies with diaspora wealth and expertise. Together, we can create a future of shared prosperity.”
IATF as a Platform for Collaboration
The IATF 2025, organised by Afreximbank in collaboration with the African Union, serves as a premier stage for strengthening Africa–Caribbean partnerships. It connects business leaders, investors, and policymakers while showcasing investment opportunities across the continent.
By participating actively in the fair, Access Bank is reinforcing its reputation as a catalyst for economic growth and innovation. The bank’s presence highlights its mission to empower youth, engage diaspora networks, and build a more connected African economy.
Looking Ahead
As conversations around African trade and global integration continue, Access Bank is making it clear that its role goes beyond banking. Its focus on creating platforms for collaboration reflects a vision of Africa that is bold, borderless, and ready to take its place as a global economic powerhouse.