FirstBank To Host China-Africa Interbank Forum

First Bank of Nigeria is set to host the first-ever China-Africa Interbank Association (CAIBA) Forum as part of moves to strengthen economic ties and investments between China and Africa. Formerly convened only in Beijing, the Forum is expected to provide a platform to spotlight Nigeria’s pivotal role in the growing China-Africa economic relationship as the host country.

The forum, themed “Joining Hands to Advance Modernisation and Strengthening China-Africa Trade, Industrialisation and Economic Diversification” will be co-hosted by China Development Bank offering opportunity for knowledge sharing, networking and deal making, for the purpose of fostering a win-win cooperation and promote joint development among member-banks.

Speaking on the forum, the chief executive of FirstBank Group, Olusegun Alebiosu, said, “We are honoured to host this pivotal event that fosters dialogue and collaboration between Chinese and African financial institutions.

This forum reinforces our commitment to bridging the gap between Africa and China, catalysing economic growth and development.

“The selection of FirstBank as the host is a testament to our rich legacy, deep expertise in African markets, and an impressive 130-year history of empowering businesses and communities to thrive. We are proud to support the continent’s economic transformation and growth and remain dedicated to exploring the partnership opportunities this forum will bring for the mutual benefit of China and Africa.”

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Established in 2018, CAIBA marked a significant milestone in fostering financial cooperation between China and Africa, comprising 16 African banks, including FirstBank, and China Development Bank (CDB) as well as ABSA Bank, West African Development Bank, Central African States Development Bank, Eastern and Southern African Trade and Development Bank, Development Bank of South Africa, Ecobank, United Bank for Africa, RawBank with the aim to enhance partnerships in various spheres, such as infrastructure interconnection, international cooperation, and cultural exchange. This initiative was driven by the need to address the funding gap in Africa for industrialization, infrastructure, and poverty alleviation.

FirstBank, with its extensive network across Sub-Saharan Africa, UK, and China, provides unparalleled access to markets, to facilitate trade and investment flows between China and Africa. Additionally, FirstBank’s expertise in financial inclusion, trade finance, corporate and investment banking positions it as an ideal partner with China Development Bank with key strengths in inclusive and sustainable financial solutions in driving this important initiative to support Chinese and African businesses.

Participants at the forum will have the chance to engage with government officials, business leaders, and financial experts from both regions. Expected guest speakers include His Excellency, the Vice President of Federal Republic of Nigeria, the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Minister of Trade, Industry & Investment, MD of China Development Bank, Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Governors of Lagos, Kano and Anambra States; Ambassadors from countries of CAIBA members, President and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the African Export–Import Bank, Representatives from the China-Africa Development Fund, and many industry leaders, policymakers, and experts to explore opportunities for cooperation and mutual growth.

In addition, the CAIBA Forum will feature a plenary session which include Dr. Abiodun Adedipe- Founder & Chief Consultant BAA Consult, David Ofosu-Dorte- Senior Partner, AB & David Africa. A Pan-African Law Firm, Ugo (UgoDre) Obi-Chukwu – Publisher Nairametrics, Wole Adeniyi- CEO, Stanbic IBTC, Bamidele Abu- CEO, ABSA Nigeria Capital Markets, Kouassigan Dovi Eliane Khady- Head Financial Institutions West African Development Bank (BOAD). Other exciting line-ups include a trade exhibition, keynote speeches, and networking events that will explore the latest trends and opportunities in China-Africa cooperation.