Wema Bank Wins Big at Global SME Finance Forum Conference Awards 2024

Wema Bank, Nigeria’s leading innovative bank and pioneer of Africa’s first fully digital bank, ALAT, has secured two prestigious awards at the Global SME Finance Forum Conference Awards 2024 held in São Paulo, Brazil, from September 16 to 18. The bank was honored as SME Financier of the Year (Africa) and received the Platinum Award for Best Financier for Women Entrepreneurs (Africa).

The Global SME Finance Forum is a prominent platform dedicated to enhancing SME financing worldwide. The Conference Awards aim to recognize successful practices among financiers, celebrate innovative products and services for SMEs, and highlight institutions that have made significant impacts in the sector. Wema Bank stood out as Africa’s top financier, particularly for women-owned SMEs, at this year’s event.

Known as the bank of choice for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), Wema Bank has built a commendable reputation for developing innovative and impactful solutions for businesses of all sizes across Nigeria. Its offerings include affordable financing options, efficient payment collection systems, digital tools for business management, and tailored advisory services. The bank’s women-focused initiative, SARA by Wema, specifically supports women entrepreneurs, helping them build sustainable businesses and access essential resources, including healthcare packages.

Wema Bank’s Managing Director/CEO, Moruf Oseni, emphasized the bank’s commitment to empowering MSMEs. “MSMEs make up the bulk of Nigeria’s economy and are critical not only to mitigating unemployment and other macroeconomic challenges but also to promoting innovation and boosting the economy towards national development,” he stated. He highlighted the bank’s dedication to providing effective solutions tailored to the needs of businesses, particularly women-owned enterprises, noting the importance of inclusive empowerment strategies.

Oseni further expressed gratitude for the recognition, stating, “We are honoured by the global recognition accorded to us by the Global SME Finance Forum. As we receive these awards, we reiterate our commitment to providing businesses with the resources they need and intelligent solutions that enhance efficiency and profitability. This prestigious recognition underscores our commitment to empowering SMEs and fostering innovation in SME finance.”

Wema Bank remains dedicated to raising the standards of banking and financial services in Nigeria, aiming to generate positive impacts across various sectors and empowering businesses for sustainable growth.

Businesses seeking tailored finance options and solutions are encouraged to visit Wema Bank’s SME portal or contact the bank at smehelpdesk@wemabank.com to get started.