DBN Recognizes Financial Institutions Supporting MSMEs

DBN Honours Financial Institutions Driving MSME Growth Across Nigeria

The Development Bank of Nigeria (DBN) has recognised top-performing partner financial institutions (PFIs) for their role in advancing the micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) sector. This recognition came at the 2025 DBN Service Ambassadors’ Awards, held in Lagos under the theme “Enhancing Partnership for MSME Resilience and Growth.”

Over ₦1 Trillion Disbursed to MSMEs

In 2024 alone, DBN disbursed ₦273.4 billion to MSMEs, raising its total funding to over ₦1 trillion since inception. The milestone underscores the bank’s pivotal role in unlocking capital for Nigeria’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Speaking at the event, Tony Okpanachi, DBN’s Managing Director, described the awards as a celebration of collaboration and a call to deepen impact.

“We appreciate you for transforming aspirational ideas into bankable businesses through the advisory roles you play,” Okpanachi said. “But beyond recognition, this is a call to drive innovation, promote financial awareness, and share stories that inspire.”

Impressive Milestones in Inclusion and Youth Financing

A performance scorecard presented by DBN’s Chief Operating Officer showcased remarkable growth across several key areas:

• Funding to women-led enterprises increased by 151%
• Youth-focused financing (ages 18 to 35) grew by 181%
• Financial inclusion improved by 110%

These figures reflect DBN’s focus on inclusive development and support for underserved demographics within Nigeria’s entrepreneurial landscape.

Expanding Network of PFIs

In the past five years, DBN’s network has grown from just 5 PFIs to over 79, representing a broadening coalition committed to grassroots economic transformation.

Award Highlights

Several institutions were recognised for their unique contributions:

• UBA received the Platinum Service Ambassador Award for its exceptional impact on MSMEs.
• LAPO Microfinance Bank earned multiple honours for its reach among grassroots and women-led businesses.
• Providus Bank was acknowledged for driving finance within Nigeria’s livestock value chain.
• FCMB and Infinity Trust Mortgage Bank Plc won the Sustainability Award for promoting environmentally and socially responsible finance.
• Fidelity Bank was awarded for driving innovation, while Stanbic IBTC was recognised for enabling first-time access to credit.
• Wema Bank and Baobab Microfinance Bank were honoured for their contributions to startup financing.

A Call for Deeper Collaboration

The awards ceremony also served as a platform for DBN to reaffirm its commitment to scaling support for MSMEs. The bank urged its partners to strengthen their advisory roles and amplify the voices of entrepreneurs shaping their communities.

“While awards acknowledge past achievements, the true legacy lies in sustained partnership, innovation, and shared impact on Nigeria’s economic future,” DBN stated.

With an ambitious strategy to further expand MSME access to capital, DBN continues to position itself as a central pillar in Nigeria’s journey toward inclusive economic growth.