EndSARS: Access Bank Empowers Youths, SMEs With N50 Billion, As Banks Count Loses

By Tosin Olatokunbo

Access Bank has taken the lead to address the problem of youth restiveness in the country following its announcement of N50 billion interest free-loans to youths, small scale businesses and community development in the country.

Coming on the heels of recent destruction of private and public property, including banks, by miscreants masquerading as EndSARS protesters, the bank said it is poised to supporting the nation rebuild and put businesses back on their feet.

Recall that the forward moving bank, last week, denied allegation that it aided soldiers who shot at EndSARS protesters in Lekki, Lagos state.

“We are deeply saddened to hear about the unfortunate loss of innocent lives yesterday at the Lekki Toll. We pray that the souls of the innocent rest in peace, noting that “We wish to address the statement by Arise TV alleging that Military Snipers were allowed access to our Head Office Tower for operations at the Lekki Toll Gate area.

“This is absolutely untrue. The video shared on Arise TV featured an employee of the bank conducting routine maintenance at the Tower location. It is unfortunate that this was reported as a sniper without any proof. As a corporate citizen with the purpose of impacting lives positively, we will never endanger the lives of Nigerians.” The Herbert Wigwe led bank said.

Putting the event of the last two weeks behind, the bank stated that “now more than ever, we remain committed to our purpose of impacting lives positively.  In the light of recent occurrences, we will be supporting Nigerian businesses with 50 billion Naira interest free loans and grants.”

Meanwhile, some banks are still counting their loses from the 14 days protests, as hoodlums damaged, looted and set on fire their business premises across the country.

The cost of the damage is still being estimated by investigators and will be known in the next few days or weeks, the magazine has learnt.

Various bank sources who spoke with The Source stated that the damage could run into several millions.