Access Bank reaffirms its leadership in sustainable finance and climate action, driving Africa’s transition to a net-zero future

[dropcap]A[/dropcap]ccess Bank PLC has reinforced its commitment to sustainable finance and climate action as the Gold Sponsor of the Nigeria Climate Change Forum (NCCF) in Abuja.

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The event brought together influential policymakers, global investors, and sustainability leaders to advance Africa’s transition towards a net-zero future.

At the NCCF, Dr Gregory Jobome, Executive Director of Risk Management at Access Bank, delivered a keynote address on The Role of Innovation and Technology in Africa’s Net-Zero Transition.

He emphasised the need for Africa to leapfrog traditional development models by harnessing technology and sustainable finance to accelerate clean energy adoption.

Highlighting Africa’s vulnerability to climate change—especially under global temperature rises exceeding 1.5°C—Dr Jobome urged urgent action to mitigate risks and build climate resilience.

During a high-level panel discussion, Access Bank’s Group Head of Enterprise Risk Management outlined strategies for unlocking financing for renewable energy projects in Nigeria.

The session showcased the Bank’s leadership in green finance, including:

Africa’s First Corporate Certified Green Bond – Pioneering climate-resilient investments and setting a benchmark for sustainable financing in the region.

Mobilising Global Climate Finance – Attracting international capital to scale renewable energy, low-carbon transport, and climate adaptation projects.

Investing in Renewable Energy – Funding solar farms, wind energy projects, and energy-efficient infrastructure.

Championing Decarbonisation – Implementing solar-powered ATMs, paperless banking, and institutional waste recycling programmes.

Innovation at the Core of Sustainability

Access Bank is at the forefront of transformative financial and technological solutions aimed at strengthening Africa’s climate resilience. The Bank is actively financing:

Smart, Low-Carbon Infrastructure – Sustainable buildings, energy-efficient systems, and green supply chains.

Circular Economy Innovations – Waste-to-energy technology, biodegradable packaging, and sustainable manufacturing.

Through its Sustainable Finance Accelerator Program, Access Bank is fostering strategic partnerships with governments, global financiers, and industry leaders to drive Africa’s green transition.

“Africa is experiencing a wave of innovation and technological advancement, much of it in collaboration with global partners. However, we must scale up efforts to create meaningful opportunities for our growing youth population in the green economy,” said Dr Jobome.

Women’s Role in Climate Action

Hajia Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, Minister of Women Affairs, highlighted the critical role of women in Africa’s net-zero agenda.

She called for greater public-private partnerships to empower women, noting that they are disproportionately affected by climate change.

Commitment to a Sustainable Future

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As Africa’s leading sustainability-driven financial institution, Access Bank continues to drive impactful climate solutions, ensuring a resilient and thriving future for the continent.