
Access Holdings Plc has reported a substantial 88% increase in gross earnings for the financial year ended December 31, 2024, hitting N4.878 trillion—a reflection of robust growth across its core and emerging business lines.
According to Olakunle Aderinokun, Head of Media & Public Relations at Access Holdings, the remarkable performance was driven by a balanced revenue mix, as interest income surged by 110% to N3.48 trillion and non-interest income grew by 47.8% to N1.397 trillion. Key contributors included thriving retail operations, expanding digital platforms, and an agile trading strategy.
The Group posted a profit before tax of N867 billion, representing a 19% rise, while profit after tax stood at N642.2 billion. Despite inflationary pressures and macroeconomic headwinds, Access Holdings also grew its total assets by 55.5% to N41.5 trillion. Customer deposits reached N22.53 trillion—up 47% year-on-year—and shareholders’ equity rose 72% to N3.76 trillion.
Impact beyond the bottom line
Beyond financials, Access Holdings made major strides in corporate social responsibility, reaching over 21 million individuals across Africa through various initiatives in education, health, entrepreneurship, and environmental sustainability. Employee wellness programs extended to 28,000 staff across all operational locations.
Through Access Bank’s flagship W-Initiative, the institution disbursed loans to over one million women-led small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), underscoring its commitment to financial inclusion and gender equality.
Recognitions and ESG achievements
The Group’s sustainability efforts earned it notable industry accolades, including three Euromoney Awards for Excellence—one of which was for “Best Bank for ESG”—as well as honors from International Finance and World Economic Magazine for community engagement and sustainability leadership.
In line with its Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) agenda, Access facilitated over $437 million in development finance inflows to support micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises across Africa. It issued 1.6 million digital loans to low-income earners and booked its inaugural diaspora mortgage loan valued at N1.4 billion.
Further cementing its environmental credentials, the Group cut operational emissions by 13.4%, planted over 57,000 trees, supported solar adoption in more than 200 homes and businesses, and secured the IFC EDGE Green Building Certification for its headquarters.
Regional growth and capital strength
The year also marked major geographic expansion for Access Bank, which launched a new office in Hong Kong, received regulatory approval in Malta, and completed integrations in Zambia and Tanzania. International operations accounted for 48.5% of the banking arm’s pre-tax profits, demonstrating the success of its cross-border strategy.
Additionally, Access Holdings became the first financial institution to fully comply with the Central Bank of Nigeria’s recapitalisation requirement, raising N351 billion through a rights issue. The capital raised is being channeled toward scaling digital infrastructure, boosting liquidity, and fueling long-term growth.
A vision for the future
With its strong financial base, expanding global presence, and commitment to sustainability, Access Holdings is positioning itself to deliver consistent value to shareholders while advancing inclusive growth and positive social outcomes across the continent.
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