Businesses and other stakeholders involved in export trade would converge in Lagos on November 5, 2015 for the customer forum of leading financial services provider, First City Monument Bank (FCMB) Limited. It is under the theme “Enhancing Capacity for Export Trade”, and in partnership with the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC).
The interactive forum is in continuation of the bank’s efforts to boost export trade and help customers tap into the numerous benefits associated with the business through sensitisation and capacity enhancement. It will also provide an opportunity to further showcase the Federal Government’s policy on export trade, the challenges and the various initiatives developed by the bank, such as pre and post shipment financing and market information strategy to support export of agro commodities and solid minerals in the country. These are in line with FCMB’s values as a simple, reliable and helpful financial institution.
Olusegun Awolowo, executive director/chief executive of the NEPC, and top officials of the Nigeria Export-Import Bank, Bank of Industry are expected to attend the forum with other regulatory bodies supporting export initiatives including National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), Nigeria Customs Service, Nigeria Agricultural Quarantine Services; Federal Inspection Agency for Solid Minerals as well as other participant from the public and private sectors of the Nigerian economy.
According to Adam Nuru, executive director, business development, FCMB, “the customer’s forum is another way FCMB demonstrates the willingness to go the extra mile towards contributing to the growth of their businesses.”
To him, the bank is committed to assisting stakeholders reduce challenges that hinder effective export trade in the country.
‘’We recognise the importance of export trade and the need to diversify the nation’s economy to a non-oil export one, considering the huge resources available in this area. As an inclusive lender, we create opportunities and support initiatives that enhance the well-being of the country and our target market. We are excited therefore, to organise this forum which will also provide a platform to engage customers and key stakeholders in export trade business in an impactful way,’’ Nuru said.
Last year, the bank organised a number of customer forums that were positively received and attended.
The focuses was on the Pre-Arrival Assessment Report (PAAR) scheme introduced by the Nigerian Customs Service to fast-track the clearance of cargo and reduce costs of business at the nation’s ports.
