Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has assured Signature Bank and other investors of a stable and business-friendly environment in the state. The governor gave the assurance during the commissioning of the Uyo branch of Signature Bank. He described the establishment of the financial institution in the state as a welcome development that would expand economic opportunities for residents and businesses.
Governor Eno stated that his administration is working to improve the ease of doing business in the state through interventions in critical areas such as electricity, land administration, and road infrastructure. He cited Akwa Ibom's road network, peaceful environment, and hardworking population as reasons why the state is a destination of choice for investors. The governor also noted that the state is being positioned as a tourism hub for the region and the country.
Eno emphasized that his administration will continue to promote small and medium-scale enterprises as a major component of the ARISE Agenda. He disclosed that the planned launch of AkwaGIS would simplify the process of obtaining Certificates of Occupancy, an important requirement for businesses, particularly financial institutions seeking to establish and expand operations. The governor also mentioned that the state is pursuing electricity reforms aimed at improving power supply.
The Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Signature Bank, Mr. Nixon Iwedi, said the opening of the Uyo branch marked the beginning of a new relationship between the bank and the people, businesses, and communities of Akwa Ibom. Iwedi described the branch as a platform for building relationships, developing businesses, and connecting the bank's financial solutions to the needs of the state.
Representing the Board Chairman, Alhaji Tijjani Borodo, Mr. Shedrack Odo said Signature Bank recognizes the economic opportunities in Akwa Ibom as well as the potential of entrepreneurs, businesses, and professionals operating in the state. Odo identified agriculture, tourism, hospitality, real estate, construction, transportation, and professional services as sectors with significant opportunities for financial intervention in the state.
The Head of Currency Circulation, Central Bank of Nigeria, Dr. Douyi Alalibo, said the establishment of the branch demonstrates confidence in Akwa Ibom's economic potential and would contribute to deepening financial inclusion in the state. Alalibo urged Signature Bank to maintain high standards of professionalism, corporate governance, customer service, and regulatory compliance.
The Uyo outlet, located at No 139 Oron Road, is the latest addition to Signature Bank's growing network, following its branches in Abuja, Aba, Asaba, Kano, Umuahia, Onitsha, and Port Harcourt. Governor Eno assured investors that political activities would not disrupt governance or the stability required for businesses to operate, urging Signature Bank to join the existing Bankers' Committee and collaborate with other financial institutions and relevant stakeholders.
Key points
- Governor Eno assures investors of a stable and business-friendly environment in Akwa Ibom State.
- Signature Bank's Uyo branch is expected to expand economic opportunities for residents and businesses.
- The bank's establishment demonstrates confidence in Akwa Ibom's economic potential and will contribute to deepening financial inclusion in the state.
