Chris Ofikulu, Executive Director, Retail & Commercial Banking, Polaris Bank, (4th left), presents office equipment for takeoff and smooth operation of NACCIMA Export Support Centre in Lagos recently.
By Peace Udugba
Polaris Bank has supported the launch of the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA) Export Support Call Centre, an initiative aimed at strengthening the capacity of Nigerian exporters, particularly those in the non-oil sector, to access and compete in global markets.
The bank said the collaboration underscores its commitment to deepening Nigeria’s export ecosystem and promoting sustainable economic growth through enhanced trade facilitation.
Speaking at the launch, Executive Director of Polaris Bank, Chris Ofikulu, emphasised the institution’s dedication to empowering local businesses with the tools and expertise required to succeed internationally. He described the call centre as a critical resource that will provide exporters with timely information, expert guidance, and advisory services to navigate the complexities of global trade.
“Today marks a pivotal moment in our mission to empower Nigerian businesses for global markets,” Ofikulu said. “Through this collaboration, we are equipping exporters with the tools, infrastructure, and expertise needed to thrive.”
The NACCIMA Export Support Call Centre is designed to serve as a one-stop platform where exporters can access real-time information, technical assistance, and regulatory advisory services. The initiative aligns with Polaris Bank’s broader vision to improve market access, drive trade efficiency, and support the diversification of Nigeria’s economy.
As part of its contribution, Polaris Bank provided key infrastructure for the centre, including laptops, a fully equipped workstation, internet-enabled modems, and high-capacity printers.
The bank noted that the support is intended to ensure smooth operations and enable the centre to effectively meet the needs of exporters.
Ofikulu further highlighted the significance of the initiative in bridging existing gaps within the export sector, especially for small and medium-scale enterprises (SMEs) operating in the non-oil segment.
“By offering exporters the right support, we are unlocking their potential to compete globally. This centre is not just a call centre; it is a catalyst for success, providing the resources, knowledge, and access exporters need to excel,” he added.
Polaris Bank also reiterated its broader commitment to the export sector through a range of financial and advisory solutions. These include stock refinancing, working capital support, and guidance on regulatory processes such as the Nigeria Export Proceeds (NXP) documentation.
The bank’s digital platform, VULTe, was also highlighted as a tool for facilitating seamless intra-African trade, enabling faster payments through the Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS).
Ofikulu expressed optimism about the impact of the partnership, noting that it would help Nigerian businesses scale operations and enhance their competitiveness on the global stage.
Polaris Bank stated that the collaboration with NACCIMA reflects its ongoing efforts to enhance export readiness,
improve access to finance, and support the growth of SMEs across the country.
The unveiling of the Export Support Call Centre, the bank added, represents another step toward building a more resilient and diversified Nigerian economy driven by non-oil exports.
