Photo caption: Chris Ofikulu, Executive Director, Retail & Commercial Banking, Polaris Bank Limited with some Customers at the South West Trade Forum sponsored by the bank.
Polaris Bank has reaffirmed its commitment to delivering exceptional customer experience through deeper engagement and partnership with its clients. The bank demonstrated this commitment on Thursday when it hosted a successful Global Trade Forum in Ibadan.
The event brought together key stakeholders, entrepreneurs, and customers from across the South-West region, including Kwara, Osun, Ogun, Ekiti, Ondo, and Oyo States. It provided a platform for dialogue on business growth, collaboration, and trade opportunities.
The Executive Director, Retail and Commercial Banking, Polaris Bank, Mr. Chris Ofikulu, led the bank’s delegation to the event. He expressed deep appreciation to attendees for their continued trust and support for the bank.
In his opening remarks, Ofikulu described the forum as a reflection of the strong relationship between Polaris Bank and its customers. “Your presence here today reflects the deep trust and strong partnership you share with Polaris Bank. We sincerely appreciate your continued support,” he said.
He noted that the Global Trade Forum aligns with the bank’s strategic mission to deepen customer engagement and deliver excellent service across regions. According to him, Polaris Bank aims to be seen not just as a financial institution but as a partner in customers’ success.
“This forum is part of our broader mission to ensure that every interaction with Polaris Bank reflects excellence, empathy, and innovation,” Ofikulu stated.
The Executive Director also pointed out that the event’s timing coincided with the recently concluded Customer Service Week, which celebrates customers’ loyalty and trust. He said the forum offered an opportunity for the bank to listen, learn, and grow together with its clients.
Group Head, Customer Experience and Value Management, Mrs. Bukola Oluyadi, also addressed participants, emphasizing the bank’s focus on understanding customer needs and supporting enterprise growth. “Our vision is to be the preferred partner for businesses, and our mission is to empower your enterprises,” she said.
Ag. Divisional Head, Operations, Mr. Ayo Adesanya, highlighted Polaris Bank’s efforts in simplifying trade processes for its customers. He explained that the bank assists clients by verifying trade documents and offering payment services at minimal costs to promote ease of doing business.
He added that the bank’s operational services are designed to enhance customer convenience, especially in areas of import, export, and trade documentation.
Sector Lead, Agric Exports, Manufacturing, and General Commerce, Mr. Anthony Anichebe, delivered a keynote address on the importance of exports to national growth. He stressed that exports remain vital to the diversification of Nigeria’s economy and that Polaris Bank provides tailored financial solutions to support the sector.
Head of Treasury, Mrs. Olayemi Agbe-Davies, provided an overview of the economic outlook, citing positive developments such as improved oil production, gradual inflation slowdown, and increasing foreign reserves. She said the bank is positioned to help businesses navigate emerging opportunities in trade finance and currency management.
Trade Services Officer, Mrs. Olaleye Arinola, made a presentation on the Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS), explaining its role in simplifying cross-border transactions within Africa. She said PAPSS allows payments in local currencies, eliminating conversion costs and fostering intra-African trade.
Participants at the forum described the engagement as insightful and timely, commending Polaris Bank for creating a platform that connects businesses with financial solutions to scale operations and expand trade frontiers.
The Global Trade Forum, according to the bank, is part of a series of customer engagement initiatives aimed at strengthening relationships, enhancing service quality, and empowering clients to thrive in the global marketplace.
