By JKNewsMedia
CUSTOMER ENGAGEMENT and business growth took centre stage last week as Polaris Bank hosted a Global Trade Forum in Ibadan, drawing key stakeholders and clients from across the South-West to explore new opportunities and deepen trade collaborations.
The event, held last Thursday, was attended by the Bank’s Executive Director, Retail and Commercial Banking, Chris Ofikulu, who expressed appreciation to participants for their partnership and trust in the Polaris brand.
Welcoming guests from Kwara, Osun, Ogun, Ekiti, Ondo, and various parts of Oyo State, Ofikulu said the forum reflects the Bank’s resolve to deepen engagement with its customers and enhance service delivery across regions.
“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 explained that the Trade Forum aligns with Polaris Bank’s broader mission of delivering superior customer experience through innovation and partnership.
“This forum is part of our ongoing commitment to ensure that every interaction you have with Polaris Bank reflects excellence, empathy, and innovation,” Ofikulu stated.
He further noted that the event’s timing, following the conclusion of Customer Service Week, was deliberate in celebrating customer loyalty and strengthening mutual growth.
“It is only fitting that we use this opportunity to celebrate you, our customers. Today’s session is about listening, learning, and growing together.
“Your feedback continues to shape how we innovate and deliver value,” he added.
Group Head, Customer Experience and Value Management, Bukola Oluyadi, reiterated the Bank’s vision to be the preferred financial partner for individuals and enterprises.
She emphasised the Bank’s focus on understanding client needs and empowering businesses through tailored financial solutions. “Our mission is to empower your enterprises. We are here today to explore how we can continue to support your growth,” Oluyadi said.
Acting Divisional Head, Operations, Ayo Adesanya, highlighted the Bank’s operational services in trade facilitation, particularly in document verification and payment processing.
He said the Bank assists customers by ensuring that trade documents are properly verified and offering payment options at minimal costs.
“We are committed to simplifying the trading process for our customers by ensuring that documents are verified efficiently and payments are handled seamlessly,” Adesanya explained.
Sector Lead, Agric Exports, Manufacturing and General Commerce, Anthony Anichebe, in his keynote presentation on exports, underscored the Bank’s role in supporting Nigerian enterprises to participate in global trade.
He stated that exports remain vital to the diversification of Nigeria’s economy and assured that Polaris Bank provides financial products designed to enhance export operations.
“Exports are key to the diversification of our economy, and Polaris Bank is here to support your export initiatives with tailored solutions,” he said.
Head of Treasury, Olayemi Agbe-Davies, provided an economic overview, noting positive indicators such as improved oil production, a gradual slowdown in inflation, and growth in foreign reserves.
“The outlook is promising, and Polaris Bank is here to support your business through trade finance, treasury solutions, and currency management,” he said.
Trade Services Officer, Olaleye Arinola, spoke on the Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS), describing it as a transformative initiative that simplifies cross-border transactions across Africa.
“PAPSS allows businesses to make payments in local currencies, eliminating conversion costs and promoting intra-African trade. It is fast, secure, and designed to support business growth across the continent,” Arinola explained.
The Global Trade Forum featured interactive sessions where participants engaged with Polaris Bank’s leadership, shared feedback, and discussed trade opportunities in local and international markets.
Participants commended the initiative and expressed optimism that such engagements would enhance business growth across the South-West region.
