Access Bank Plc has introduced a Mandarin-language feature on its AccessMore app, enhancing digital banking services for Chinese businesses and expatriates in Nigeria. The groundbreaking initiative was launched during the 2025 Economic Outlook dialogue in Lagos, aimed at fostering stronger financial and trade connectivity between the two nations.
This development comes as bilateral trade between China and Nigeria surged to $17.12 billion in the first ten months of 2024, with Nigerian exports to China experiencing a 34.5% year-on-year increase, reaching $2.42 billion.
China’s Consul General in Lagos, Yan Yuqing, hailed the app update as a significant step in deepening economic ties.
“This project not only provides Chinese enterprises and individuals with more convenient, safe, and efficient financial services but also builds a more efficient bridge for economic and trade exchanges between China and Nigeria. Trade development cannot be separated from the support of financial services. This platform serves as a valuable tool in deepening cooperation and assisting more Chinese investments in Nigeria, ultimately contributing to Nigeria’s modernization.” she remarked.
Access Bank’s Acting Managing Director, Bolaji Agbede, emphasized the bank’s dedication to meeting the needs of its international clientele.
“We are proud today to unveil the Mandarin language feature on our AccessMore mobile application. This platform bridges the gap between the local market and the needs of the Chinese community, ensuring the products we create are tailored specifically for you.” Agbede stated.
The new feature builds on Access Bank’s decade-long engagement with the Chinese market, which began with the establishment of its Chinese Desk in 2013. This move complements the bank’s global footprint, with branches in strategic locations such as Hong Kong, Dubai, and the United Kingdom.
Against the backdrop of China’s 4.8% GDP growth in 2024 and its role as the top trade partner for over 140 countries, the AccessMore app is positioned to facilitate increased Chinese investment in Nigeria and promote Nigerian exports, particularly in agriculture and minerals.
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In addition to the Mandarin-language option, the AccessMore app boasts a suite of innovative features designed to meet the financial needs of its users:
- Account Management: Direct access to account officers, performance ratings, and simplified requests for account statements and e-reference letters.
- Foreign Transfers: Seamless foreign currency transactions, e-naira wallet integration, and swift intra- and inter-bank transfers.
- Payment Options: Unique tools such as personal QR codes, Bluetooth payments, Breezepay, and split payments for shared expenses.
- Gift Cards and Bill Payments: Users can purchase gift cards for popular brands and pay a variety of bills, including tuition and utility fees, locally and internationally.
- Loan Management: Transparent loan tracking and access to salary advances, personal, and business loan options with competitive terms.
- Card Services: Request, activate, or block debit, credit, and virtual cards, with enhanced cheque management options.
The app also supports leisure payments, insurance, pension contributions, and fixed investments, making it a comprehensive financial tool for both personal and business use.