In a demonstration of solidarity and corporate social responsibility, Nigerian banks have provided substantial relief materials to flood victims in Jigawa State under the Committee of Nigeria Banks Chief Executive Officers.
The initiative, announced in a statement on Thursday, saw a delegation of top bank executives visiting the state to empathize with the affected residents and assure them of continued support.
The delegation included the Group Managing Director of United Bank for Africa and Chairman of the Committee, Dr. Oliver Alawuba; Group Managing Director of Access Bank Plc, Mr. Roosevelt Ogbonna; Group Managing Director of Zenith Bank, Adaora Umeoji; and Managing Director of Fidelity Bank Plc, Dr. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe.
Also present were the President of the Association of Corporate Affairs Managers of Banks, Mr. Rasheed Bolarinwa, and the Registrar and Chief Executive of the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria, Mr. Akin Morakinyo.
Speaking on behalf of the delegation, Dr. Alawuba emphasized the commitment of Nigerian banks to alleviating the plight of disaster victims.
He stated that the multi-million naira relief package, comprising essential items such as rice, cooking oil, mattresses, and beverages, was aimed at providing comfort and easing the burden on those affected by the devastating floods.
“As bankers, we are not just concerned about the economic implications of natural disasters; we are also deeply troubled by the human suffering that accompanies them,” Alawuba said.
“It is our collective responsibility to support those affected and help them rebuild their lives.”
Dr. Alawuba highlighted the longstanding tradition of the banking sector’s involvement in national emergencies, citing interventions during the 2011 and 2013 floods, when 28 and 32 states, respectively, were severely affected.
He also recalled the industry’s pivotal role during the COVID-19 pandemic, where over N32bn was mobilized for national healthcare.
“Our industry has always been at the forefront of laudable initiatives across economic and non-economic sectors, particularly in areas such as security and disaster response,” Alawuba said, reaffirming the sector’s commitment to driving positive societal change.
He commended the banks that contributed to the relief efforts, noting that their generosity underscores the industry’s passion for national development and environmental stewardship.
Receiving the delegation, Governor Umar Namadi of Jigawa State expressed gratitude for the banks’ humanitarian gesture and their broader developmental contributions.
“Never did we imagine that four managing directors of leading Nigerian banks would visit our state to empathize with us,” Namadi remarked.
He added “this gesture speaks volumes about the commitment of Nigerian banks to national development.”
The governor assured that the relief materials would be distributed equitably and urged continued collaboration between public and private sectors to enhance the well-being of Nigerians.
“The flood victims have endured significant hardship, but with institutions like Nigerian banks stepping in, they have hope,” he said. “We pray for divine blessings on the banks for their generosity.”
Do you want to share a story with us? Do you want to advertise with us? Do you need publicity for a product, service, or event? Contact us on WhatsApp +2348183319097 Email: platformtimes@gmail.com
We are committed to impactful investigative journalism for human interest and social justice. Your donation will help us tell more stories. Kindly donate any amount HERE
