Access Holdings Plc, through its banking vertical – Access Bank Plc, has announced a donation of over N1 billion to assist with relief and recovery efforts in Maiduguri, following the devastating floods in the Borno State capital.

The announcement was made during a visit of the Group’s delegates, led by the Acting Group Chief Executive Officer, Bolaji Agbede, to the Borno State Government House in Maiduguri on Friday, September 27, 2024.

Access Holdings said the donation was aimed at providing both immediate and long-term respite to the Maiduguri flood victims.

Access Holdings added that the contribution will be allocated as N500 million in cash to support the state government’s on-the-ground response efforts, N500 million for the restoration of critical infrastructure damaged by the flood, and essential food supplies to ensure the most vulnerable receive care.

Speaking at the meeting, Agbede, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to supporting the people of Borno State, restating a pledge to impact lives of communities where the institution operates.

She said: “At Access Holdings, we believe in positively impacting the communities we serve, not only as a financial institution but as a family that cares deeply for its people. We recognise the resilience of the people of Borno, and we are committed to providing the support necessary to overcome this difficult time.

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“This donation is not merely about the funding; it is about offering immediate succour to families and individuals, who have been affected, while also contributing to local economic resurgence and long-term resilience through the restoration of essential infrastructure.”

Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum, who received the Access Holdings delegation, expressed appreciation for the donation and the company’s swift response to the flooding incident.

Zulum said: “We are moved by the generosity and commitment shown by Access Holdings and Access Bank during this critical time. This donation of N1 billion is appreciated during this challenging time and will be judiciously utilised to impact the lives of all those who have been affected by the incident.

“The restoration of our hospitals and essential services will strengthen our resilience, while the food relief will provide immediate comfort to families and individuals in distress. Truly, this support speaks to the importance of cooperation between the government, and the private sector in improving the lives of our local communities.”

The donation sees Access Holdings become the first mainstream financial institution to offer support to Borno State in the wake of the disaster that affected over one million people – leaving entire residential areas submerged and scores of people displaced.

The Star