Over 400 Stakeholders Set to Converge in Uyo for 20th Anniversary of Microfinance Banking Conference
By Dominic Umoh
The city of Uyo, capital of Akwa Ibom State, is set to host over 400 participants from across Nigeria as the National Association of Microfinance Banks (NAMB) marks the 20th Anniversary of the Microfinance Banking Conference, a major event in Nigeria’s financial sector.
The conference, scheduled to hold from Wednesday, October 23 to Sunday, October 25, 2025, at Ceedapeg Hotels, Uyo, will have as its theme: “Microfinance Banking: Bridging the Past, Empowering a Sustainable Future for Economic Development.”
Speaking during a media chat in Uyo, the President of the National Association of Microfinance Banks, Alhaji Abubakar Adamu Ahmed, described the forthcoming event as “a milestone in the evolution of microfinance banking in Nigeria,” noting that the sector has grown from a modest beginning in 2005 into a nationwide network with over 2,000 branches across all Local Government Areas in the country.
Alhaji Adamu explained that over the past two decades, microfinance institutions have played a pivotal role in extending financial inclusion, supporting small and medium enterprises (SMEs), and empowering the active poor to become economically independent.
He asserted that the agency started as an infant institution, but today, microfinance banks are deeply rooted in every part of Nigeria, offering financial services, training, and business support that have transformed lives and communities.
Alhaji Adamu explained that the choice of Akwa Ibom as host for the 20th anniversary was deliberate, citing the state’s impressive record in socioeconomic and infrastructural development, peaceful environment, and growing reputation as a tourism destination.
“Akwa Ibom is blessed, the level of innovation, enterprise, and cultural pride in the state is inspiring, we appreciate the efforts of successive leaders who have sustained growth and improved the quality of life for citizens,” he added.
Alhaji Adamu, whose wife hails from Akwa Ibom, shared that his admiration for the state’s industrious and innovative spirit influenced the choice of Uyo as the host city.
“My wife is a proud daughter of Akwa Ibom, and through her, I discovered the uniqueness of this state, from its creativity and tourism appeal to its cuisine and entrepreneurial energy. That connection made Uyo the perfect destination for this historic celebration,” he added.
As part of activities marking the anniversary, the association will feature the governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno as special guest, pay a courtesy visit to the Oku Ibom Ibibio, the supreme traditional ruler of the state.
Speaking further, he said that the conference will also review two decades of progress in the microfinance sector, evaluate challenges, and chart new strategies for expanding financial inclusion and supporting entrepreneurship across Nigeria.
“We are not just celebrating history, we are assessing our journey, highlighting our achievements, and setting a new vision for the next 20 years of inclusive financial growth,” he added.
The conference will feature keynote presentations and panel discussions from prominent industry experts including Dr. Nsikan Linus Nkan, Dr. Michael Odere, Mr. Dave Orace, and Mr. Emem Almond Bob, who will share insights on the future of microfinance banking, innovation, and sustainable growth.
