Access Bank picks Morocco, seven other African countries for expansion

Story by Kayode Tokede with Bloomberg

Access Bank Plc, has identified eight African countries for a potential expansion as it seeks to benefit from a continental-wide free trade pact.

The Chief Executive Officer, Access Bank,  Herbert Wigwe said on an investor call on Tuesday that “to expand to high-potential markets, leveraging the benefits of the African Continental Free Trade Area.”

The company already operates in 12 countries following a series of acquisitions spanning from Kenya to its home market.

The markets of interest are Morocco, Algeria, Egypt, Ivory Coast, Senegal, Angola, Namibia and Ethiopia, according to an online presentation emailed by the Lagos-based lender

It will also use its London-based unit as an “anchor for growth” to expand representative offices in countries such as India, Lebanon and China, the CEO said.

The African trade pact aims to bolster intra-regional commerce by lowering or eliminating cross-border tariffs, facilitating the movement of capital and people, promoting investment and paving the way for the establishment of a continental-wide customs union.

Access Bank plans to eventually expand into 22 African countries to cushion challenges in some markets, diversify earnings and take advantage of growth opportunities in the region.

The lender, which is looking to transition to a holding company this year, plans to open subsidiaries in insurance brokerage, consumer lending and agency banking as well as payments to boost revenue, Wigwe said.