Adeleke urges banks to reopen branches

By Damilola Olufemi

Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State has appealed to administrators of commercial banks to reopen their branches across the state, assuring them of an enabling environment for businesses to thrive.

The governor made this plea during the commissioning of the rebuilt Ede branch of First Bank of Nigeria, on Friday.

Adeleke stressed his administration’s commitment to growing the private sector and creating opportunities for businesses to flourish, adding that the state has restructured its security architecture, making major towns and villages safer for business activities.

“The conditions that led to the closure of banks’ branches in Ila, Iree, Ikirun, Iwo, and other areas of the state no longer exist. Osun is now secure for banking operations,” he said.

He urged top bank management to reconsider reopening their branches, highlighting that despite the availability of digital applications, physical offices are still essential in many towns.

“I call on top bank management to reopen their branches. Osun is under-banked, even with digital applications, physical offices are still needed in many towns.

“I recently launched a sustainable industrial policy for the state. I call on banks to partner with us for implementation. We want to grow the private sector. This is good news for financial institutions.

“We are receiving high volumes of investors’ interest to enter the Osun market. We are creating an enabling environment. Bank chiefs should join us.

“I commend First Bank for its deep partnership with Osun State. Expand your reach, our administration is prepared to deepen partnerships with financial institutions and private organisations,” he added.