The Development Bank of Nigeria (DBN) has celebrated its partner financial institutions (PFIs) for their crucial role in fostering the growth of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) across Nigeria, highlighting a strong commitment to inclusive development. At the 2025 DBN Service Ambassadors’ Awards Ceremony in Lagos, themed “Enhancing Partnership for MSME Resilience and Growth,” DBN recognized outstanding PFIs for their contributions, noting that total disbursements have exceeded N1 trillion, with N273.4 billion disbursed in the past year.
DBN Managing Director Tony Okpanachi commended the PFIs for their continued support in building the capacity of MSMEs, emphasizing their role in transforming ideas into viable businesses. He urged them to move beyond accolades and focus on deepening their impact through innovation, awareness campaigns, and showcasing success stories.
DBN’s Chief Operating Officer presented a performance scorecard revealing significant growth in key areas. Disbursements to women-led enterprises increased by 151.24%, while financing for youth (18-35 years) rose by over 181%. Financial inclusion also saw a boost of over 110%. The bank’s network of partner institutions has expanded significantly, growing from just five in its early years to over 79 PFIs in five years.
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Several PFIs received awards for their outstanding performance. UBA was awarded the Highest Impact on MSMEs and received the Platinum Service Ambassador Award. LAPO Microfinance Bank received multiple honors, including Highest Impact on Grassroots MSMEs and Women MSMEs. Providus Bank was recognized for supporting Nigeria’s livestock value chain, while FCMB and Infinity Trust Mortgage Bank Plc received the DBN Sustainability Award for their green and socially responsible initiatives. Other winners included Fidelity Bank, Stanbic IBTC, Wema Bank, and Baobab Microfinance Bank, recognized for innovation, enabling first-time credit access, and financing startups, respectively. DBN has pledged to continue encouraging its partners to expand their advisory services and amplify the success stories of entrepreneurs transforming their communities, reinforcing its commitment to Nigeria’s economic future.
