Lagos, Nigeria – July 18, 2023: Access Holdings, a leading African finance institution

committed to making a difference, has once again demonstrated its dedication to

ensuring children have the chance to access quality education. Through its recent Polo

Day, held at the esteemed Guards Polo Club in Windsor, United Kingdom, the group

secured pledges for the construction of 100 classroom blocks in Nigeria.

The classrooms will go a long way in ensuring countless underprivileged children will

have access to a safe and nurturing learning environment, ultimately inspiring them to

dream, learn and become more.

In his remarks at the event, the Group Managing Director of Access Holdings, Herbert

Wigwe, highlighted the significant milestones made in line with the organisation’s

objectives.

“Today, we stand on the shoulders of the remarkable achievements from previous

editions. Each one, a testament to our commitment to making a tangible difference in

the lives of children in need of education and optimism. Together, we have made good

progress in ensuring children are given a fair chance at a brighter future through quality

education.

“Our collective and continuing support of free and equitable education for children

reflects a view of our role as change agents that can help institute socio-economic

development through responsible business practice and social initiatives. As such, we

will continue to seek out innovative ways to garner resources and invest in the future of

our society. We are part of the community and we support its wellbeing,” Wigwe stated.

Since the polo fundraising initiative was launched in partnership with Fifth Chukker and

UNICEF, Access Holdings, through its flagship subsidiary, Access Bank Plc has seen

to the refurbishment of several schools in Kaduna and has put over 12,000 children

through continuous education. At the same time, 60 classrooms and a computer

literacy building have been commissioned. The communities surrounding the schools

are supported with boreholes for water, while households have been empowered with

equipment and training to secure employment, stimulating economic and social

development.

The completion of the new set of classroom blocks will represent a significant step in

the organisation’s goal of attaining a student-to-class ratio of 35-40 students per class

in line with the national target.

Restating plans to empower even more communities, the Managing Director, Access

Bank Plc, Roosevelt Ogbonna emphasised that, “The Group’s true victory does not

solely in the goals scored during the tournament, but in the lasting impact we can

create beyond these moments.”

“We are proud to be a driving force in the pursuit of access to education and look

forward to creating a world where every child has the opportunity to thrive,” he

concluded.

The event brought together distinguished guests and personalities from around the

world. Among the notable attendees were the Executive Governor of Lagos State,

Babajide Sanwoolu; 14th Emir of Kano, Khalifa Muhammadu Sanusi II, CON; 21st Olu

of Warri, His Majesty, Ogiame Atuwase III; Chairman, Coronation Capital, Aigboje Aig-

Imoukhuede; Chairman, Access Bank Plc, Paul Usoro (SAN); former Chairman of

Access Bank Plc, Ajoritsedere Awosika, and more.