The Development Bank of Nigeria has recognised outstanding partner financial institutions for their contributions to micro, small, and medium enterprise growth across Nigeria, disbursing N273.4bn in the past year and pushing total disbursement to over N1tn.
The recognition came during the 2025 DBN Service Ambassadors’ Awards Ceremony, held recently in Lagos under the theme “Enhancing Partnership for MSME Resilience and Growth”.
The Managing Director of DBN, Tony Okpanachi, in his keynote address, commended the PFIs for their continued support in building the capacity of MSMEs.
“You, our partners, are acknowledged and celebrated for your outreach to entrepreneurs, young people, and businesses seeking to scale up. We appreciate you for transforming aspirational ideas into bankable businesses through the advisory roles you play,” Okpanachi said.
He stressed that the awards were not merely for recognition but a call to deepen impact through innovation, awareness campaigns, and showcasing success stories.
“Let’s shift the focus from accolades to impact. This is about Nigeria’s future, not just a moment of recognition,” he added.
DBN’s Chief Operating Officer presented a performance scorecard that highlighted the bank’s milestones.
Disbursement to women-led enterprises grew by 151.24 per cent, while youth-focused financing for individuals aged 18–35 rose by over 181 per cent. Financial inclusion increased by over 110 per cent, further reinforcing DBN’s commitment to inclusive development.
He also noted that DBN’s network of partner institutions has grown from just five in its early days to over 79 PFIs in five years.
UBA was awarded the Highest Impact on MSMEs and received the Platinum Service Ambassador Award. LAPO Microfinance Bank received multiple honours, including Highest Impact on Grassroots MSMEs and Women MSMEs. Providus Bank was recognised for supporting Nigeria’s livestock value chain, while FCMB and Infinity Trust Mortgage Bank Plc received the DBN Sustainability Award for their green and socially responsible initiatives.
Other winners included Fidelity Bank for innovation, Stanbic IBTC for enabling first-time credit access, and Wema Bank and Baobab Microfinance Bank for financing startups.
DBN said it would continue to encourage partners to expand their advisory services and amplify the stories of entrepreneurs transforming their communities.
“The 2025 DBN Service Ambassadors’ Awards reinforced a core message: while awards acknowledge past achievements, the true legacy lies in continued collaboration, innovation, and impact on Nigeria’s economic future,” the bank stated.
The PUNCH reported that the Development Bank of Nigeria has unveiled an ambitious strategic plan to significantly expand its financial support of the country’s micro, small, and medium enterprises sector.
