Access Bank Plc has partnered with the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX) to launch its Impact Board, dedicated to listing sustainability instruments and integrating sustainability into Nigeria’s capital market.
This partnership underscores Access Bank’s commitment to driving environmental sustainability and supporting projects aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The event was attended by significant stakeholders, including the Minister of Environment, Balarabe Lawal, and the Director-General of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Dr. Emomotimi Agama.
Minister Lawal emphasized the need for urgent action on environmental issues such as flooding, pollution, and deforestation. He highlighted the importance of sustainable financing in addressing these challenges.
Gregory Jobome, Executive Director of Risk Management at Access Bank Plc, highlighted the bank’s role in issuing corporate Green Bonds in Africa and its commitment to fostering a greener investment landscape through the NGX Impact Board.
Support for Sustainable Finance
SEC’s Stance: Dr. Emomotimi Agama reaffirmed the SEC’s support for sustainable finance, aiming to deepen the market with diverse instruments that contribute to Nigeria’s sustainable development.
NGX’s Capacity: Dr. Umaru Kwairanga, Group Chairman of the Nigerian Exchange Group, expressed confidence in NGX’s ability to raise the necessary funds to achieve the goals outlined in the Paris Agreement and the SDGs.
Access Bank’s Leadership in Climate Finance
Green Bond Market Development: Access Bank has demonstrated leadership in climate finance across Africa, starting with its support for the Green Bond Market Development Programme in June 2018. This initiative aimed to develop a non-sovereign green bond market in Nigeria.
First African Corporate Green Bond: In April 2019, Access Bank issued its inaugural green bond valued at NGN 15 billion (USD 41 million), becoming the first African corporate entity to receive CBI certification. The bond was listed on multiple exchanges, including the FMDQ OTC Securities Exchange, Nigerian Stock Exchange, and Luxembourg Green Exchange.
Ongoing Commitment: Building on its initial success, Access Bank issued USD 50 million Reg S Step-Up Green Notes in 2022 under its USD 1.5 billion Global Medium-Term Note Programme, further solidifying its dedication to sustainable financing.
The launch of the NGX Impact Board, in partnership with Access Bank, marks a significant step towards enhancing sustainable finance in Nigeria. By integrating sustainability into the capital market, Access Bank and NGX are paving the way for responsible investment practices that align with global environmental and social goals.
