By Esther Agbo
Access Holdings Plc has made a donation of over N1 billion to aid flood relief and recovery efforts in Maiduguri, Borno State. The donation, announced during a visit to the Borno State Government House, is part of the company’s commitment to providing support to communities in need.
The delegation, led by the Acting Group Chief Executive Officer of Access Holdings, Bolaji Agbede, presented the donation to Governor Babagana Zulum.
According to the Group’s statement, the funds will be split into N500 million in cash to support the government’s immediate response efforts and another N500 million for the restoration of critical infrastructure damaged by the floods.
Additionally, essential food supplies will be provided to assist vulnerable residents impacted by the disaster.
During the presentation, Agbede emphasised the Group’s dedication to making a difference in the lives of those affected stating, “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.
“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.”
The floods, which have left over one million people displaced and many homes submerged, have prompted an urgent need for support from both the public and private sectors. The donation from Access Holdings marks the first major financial contribution by a mainstream financial institution to the state’s flood relief efforts.
Governor Zulum expressed his gratitude to Access Holdings for its swift and generous response.
He said, “We are moved by the generosity and commitment shown by Access Holdings and Access Bank during this critical time.”
He assured that the funds would be put to good use to benefit those most affected by the disaster.
“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,” Zulum added.
Zulum also highlighted the importance of cooperation between the government and private sector in addressing the crisis.
“Truly, this support speaks to the importance of cooperation between the government, and the private sector in improving the lives of our local communities,” he said.