Nigeria: Access Bank to enhance financial inclusion with offline platform

Access Bank Plc has introduced a new offline banking platform called 901.ng. This platform aims to offer customers an extra channel for conducting transactions and enhancing financial inclusion across Nigeria.

In 2023, financial inclusion in Nigeria rose to 74 percent, compared to 68 percent in 2020.

The Central Bank of Nigeria aims to achieve a 95 percent financial inclusion rate by 2024.

The concept was introduced through a partnership with RemitPlus, a leading advocate for offline banking solutions in Nigeria.

During the launch event held in Lagos, Access Bank emphasized that the solution aimed to redefine convenience and security in banking. It ensures uninterrupted access to financial services, even without internet connectivity.

The Deputy Managing Director of Access Bank, Victor Etuokwu, said, “In today’s fast-paced digital age, connectivity is often taken for granted. However, millions of individuals worldwide still face challenges accessing online banking services due to various reasons, such as poor internet infrastructure, remote locations, or security concerns. “Recognising this gap, Access Bank has developed this solution to empower our customers to bank securely, anytime, anywhere, irrespective of internet availability.

“We are committed to leveraging technology to enhance the banking experience for all our customers. With the introduction of our offline banking platform, 901.ng, we are breaking barriers and empowering individuals and businesses to manage their finances with confidence, even in offline environments.”

Also, the Group Head of Consumer Banking, Access Bank, Njideka Esomeju, said that the lender’s offline banking platform, 901.ng reaffirmed one of the bank’s core values – innovation, setting a new standard for accessibility and security in the banking industry.

“As part of its ongoing commitment to excellence, Access Bank will continue to evolve its offerings to meet the evolving needs of its diverse customer base,” she remarked.

The Head of Digital Channels at Access Bank Plc, Oluremi Tinuolu-Gabriel, added that the product was one of its kind and was launched in a bid to improve the customer experience.

“What we are bringing to the market today is the first of its kind in this part of the world. We want to ensure that customers can seamlessly do what they want to do. 901.ng allows customers to do their basic banking transactions with or without the internet,” he declared.

The CEO of RemitPlus, Emeka Madu, noted that Access Bank had been at the forefront of innovation with a large customer base, hence, they were a preferred choice.