Access eyes top-five

The newly-appointed Managing Director of Access Bank Ghana, Dolapo Ogundimu, says his strategic vision is to position the newly-merged Access-Intercontinental Bank within the top-five banks in the country’s financial sector in the next five years, with a strong balance sheet.

Outlining his strategic corporate vision at a media interaction in Accra, Mr. Ogundimu assured the over-150,000 customers of the combined bank to expect enormous benefits from a product-range that blends the very best of the two entities.

Customers will also benefit from an expanded network of branches, along with a network of 43 ATMs across the country. The Access-Intercontinental Bank merger creates a formidable financial services franchise with clear market leadership in trade finance and cash-management, he said.

“We are a very ambitious bank and a formidable financial institution with enough capital that can spearhead the acquisition and use of robust technology. The successful merger is currently at its final stage, with the rebranding of the bank officially commencing today with promotions and mass-marketing campaign strategies.

“All the 32 branches and seven agencies of the combined entity will unveil their Access branding today. This follows all relevant regulatory and shareholder approvals. Customers of both banks can now transact business in all the rebranded branch outlets.”

He said the two banks had envisaged that the merger process would take between six and eight months, but thanks to the enormous support from all stakeholders the merger has been completed ahead of time.

“This acceleration has also been made possible by the high level of commitment and cooperation from employees of both banks, especially from staff. This is a significant milestone for the Ghanaian banking sector; it brings together the prudent management and robust risk- management framework of Access Bank and the extensive geographical footprint of Intercontinental Bank Ghana, with one of the highest number of branches and ATMs.

“We can only progress upwards from strength to strength,” he said.