At the recent World Trade Organisation (WTO) event in Geneva, Switzerland, Tony Okpanachi, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Development Bank of Nigeria (DBN) Plc, joined global leaders to promote inclusive trade and sustainable development. The forum, hosted by the WTO, brought together influential policymakers, business executives, and development experts focused on building fairer economic systems that benefit all nations.
Tony Okpanachi participated alongside WTO Director-General Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala and the Board Chair of the United Nations Sanitation and Hygiene Fund (UNSHF), Cecilia Akintomide. Their presence reflected Africa’s growing impact on global economic discussions. Each leader contributed insights on how stronger collaboration between governments, international institutions, and the private sector can drive shared prosperity.
During the discussions, Tony Okpanachi highlighted the vital role of development finance in closing gaps faced by small businesses. He explained that inclusive financing remains key to expanding opportunities and stimulating sustainable growth. He also shared DBN’s success in empowering micro, small, and medium enterprises through affordable credit and capacity-building initiatives. His message emphasized that true progress requires strategic partnerships that deliver measurable impact.
Dr. Okonjo-Iweala urged participants to strengthen policy frameworks that encourage innovation and trade inclusion. She stressed that inclusive trade practices build resilience and promote stability in developing economies. Cecilia Akintomide, on her part, drew attention to the connection between economic growth and public welfare. She reminded global leaders that access to sanitation, health, and education directly affects productivity and equality.
Throughout the event, the energy remained focused on collaboration, innovation, and action. Delegates discussed how emerging economies can benefit from fairer trade systems and smarter financial solutions. Tony Okpanachi shared that DBN’s work in Nigeria offers valuable lessons for other nations. By linking local entrepreneurs with sustainable finance, DBN continues to create pathways for job creation and poverty reduction.
The Geneva forum also underscored the importance of aligning financial inclusion with global sustainability goals. Participants agreed that inclusive finance helps reduce inequality and strengthens community resilience. With continuous engagement from leaders like Tony Okpanachi, the dialogue is moving from policy theory to practical implementation. His presence demonstrated Africa’s readiness to contribute meaningfully to global economic transformation.
As discussions concluded, optimism filled the room. Delegates reaffirmed their commitment to fair trade, inclusive growth, and long-term sustainability. They agreed that coordinated efforts between national governments, private investors, and international agencies remain essential. The collaboration among Tony Okpanachi, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, and Cecilia Akintomide symbolized this shared vision of a future shaped by equity, opportunity, and innovation.
Tony Okpanachi left Geneva with renewed determination to strengthen partnerships that empower businesses and communities across Africa. His message resonated strongly: economic growth must serve people first, not just markets. Through dialogue, partnership, and action, the world can build a trade system that uplifts every nation.
