The Alternative Bank has reinforced its commitment to empowering young innovators and technology-driven Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) across Nigeria. The bank made this pledge during the Jericho Businessmen Club’s third Annual Socio-Economic Summit, which convened business leaders, policymakers, and academic stakeholders to discuss strategies for sustainable economic growth and bridging the digital skills gap among Nigerian youths.
According to the bank, sustainable nation-building requires deliberate investments in human capital, with young innovators needing ecosystem support, mentorship, and access to essential resources to transform ideas into scalable solutions.
The Executive Director (South) of The Alternative Bank, Korede Demola-Adeniyi, emphasised the centrality of technology in driving economic inclusion. “Technology is the most potent equaliser in modern commerce, and by investing in the technological upliftment of our youth, we are future-proofing our economy. We believe in providing alternatives not just in finance, but in opportunity, ensuring that local talent have the tools and environment to compete globally,” he said.
The bank disclosed plans to explore strategic partnerships identified during the summit and introduce bespoke non-interest financing schemes tailored for technology entrepreneurs and vocational skills programmes. The initiative is expected to transform local innovation hubs into centres of excellence capable of producing world-class digital solutions.
Aligning with Nigeria’s broader macroeconomic objectives, the bank highlighted that supporting tech-focused MSMEs is key to diversifying national revenue, creating high-value jobs, and fostering a knowledge-driven economy capable of attracting foreign direct investment. By equipping young people with relevant digital and vocational skills, the bank aims to reduce youth unemployment and stimulate innovation across industries.
The Alternative Bank reaffirmed its mandate to support inclusive economic growth and impact-driven projects that directly benefit communities. It pledged ongoing collaboration with private-sector players, academic institutions, and industry associations to nurture entrepreneurship, innovation, and sustainable development.
The bank described the summit as a timely intervention, underlining that collaboration between business and education stakeholders is critical to closing Nigeria’s digital divide and ensuring that the country’s youth are prepared for the future of work.
