Polaris Bank Hosts Global Trade Forum to Boost Nigeria’s Export Growth
Polaris Bank, Nigeria’s foremost digital retail and commercial bank, brought together key stakeholders in the non-oil trade sector at its inaugural Global Trade Forum. The event aimed to strengthen relationships, tackle trade challenges, and explore innovative solutions to accelerate business expansion.
Under the theme “Trade Export: Partnering for Growth,” the forum convened business leaders, exporters, regulators, Nigerian Customs officials, and policy influencers to discuss opportunities and hurdles in Nigeria’s trade landscape.
Polaris Bank’s CEO, Kayode Lawal, emphasized trade’s vital role in sustainable economic development. He reiterated the bank’s commitment to providing customized solutions that enable Nigerian businesses to thrive internationally. “Our goal is to address real-world trade issues and identify practical, innovative ways to support growth,” Lawal stated. “We see ourselves not just as a financial institution but as a trusted partner in Nigeria’s progress.”
A highlight was the participation of Assistant Comptroller of Customs, Aondona Fanyama, who showcased the Nigeria Trade Portal B’odogwu’s features, demonstrating how it simplifies cross-border trade by enhancing transparency and efficiency. He also pledged prompt assistance to forum participants facing portal-related challenges, exemplifying collaborative problem-solving.
Held at Lagos Continental Hotel, the event fostered dialogue on trade finance, export readiness, compliance, market access, and digital trade facilitation. Participants engaged directly with financial experts, policymakers, Customs officials, and industry leaders—creating opportunities for collaboration and sustainable growth.
Polaris Bank’s executive team, including Directors for Retail, Commercial, and Corporate & Investment Banking, alongside strategic business leaders from Treasury and Global Trade divisions, showcased the bank’s dedication to supporting Nigeria’s trade ambitions.
Through this forum, Polaris Bank reaffirmed its role as a forward-thinking partner committed to empowering businesses, driving economic development, and strengthening Nigeria’s position in the global market.