Mr. Roosevelt Ogbonna, Group Managing Director/CEO of Access Bank Plc, announced on Monday that the bank is set to expand its operations into the United States in the first quarter of 2026, with the goal of becoming a truly global African bank.
During a media briefing in Lagos, Ogbonna emphasized the bank’s ambition to establish a significant presence in international markets, having already made inroads into London, Hong Kong, and Paris.
“By Q1 2026, we will launch Access Bank USA. Our aim is to engage in the global market and foster connections with various international counterparts,” he stated.
He explained that Access Bank intends to play a vital role in key sectors by enhancing trade and payment solutions across the continent.
“We’re implementing an aggregator strategy, as it’s crucial for a pan-African bank to have a tangible impact. In every market, we aim to compete effectively and become a dominant player locally,” he added.
Ogbonna revealed that by 2027, Access Bank plans to operate in 19 African markets, with expectations to rank among the top three banks in eight of those markets, and among the top ten in 15. Furthermore, he indicated that 11 of those markets would be home to a top five bank.
He stressed the importance of building scale in these markets by employing local talent, positively influencing local economies, and collaborating with governments to make a meaningful impact.
“This strategy will enable us to facilitate cross-border trade effectively,” he noted.
Ogbonna highlighted that the bank is strategic in selecting markets for investment, focusing on regions that uphold the rule of law, respect contracts, and demonstrate investor openness. He emphasized the importance of quality education and skills in these markets, as well as significant intra-African trade.
“As international banks withdraw, there’s a critical need for local African banks to capitalize on these opportunities within the framework of African free trade,” he concluded.
