ABU Microfinance Bank Embarks on Tech Initiatives to Deepen Financial Inclusion - MD

The Managing Director of Ahmadu Bello University Microfinance Bank Nigeria Limited, Aminu Mohammed Abubakar, says the bank has commenced several critical tech initiatives to deepen financial inclusion, improve service delivery and enhance internal controls.

According to him, the bank's digital transformation agenda has laid the groundwork for a completely modernised bank.

Abubakar spoke at the 8th Annual General Meeting of the bank held at Yusufu Bala Usman Hall, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, on Saturday, September 26, 2026.

Some of the initiatives listed by the Managing Director include core banking system upgrade, process automation, expanded distribution channels and fintech partnerships.

"We are on track with the migration to a next generation core banking system. This provides the foundational engine needed for real-time transaction processing and digital product rollouts," he said.

He also said the bank shall deploy workflow automation across its back-office and credit approval pipelines, which slashed file turnaround times and improved internal compliance.

"We shall deploy and optimize our digital customer touchpoints and agency banking footprint, making everyday banking highly accessible to informal businesses and micro-merchants," he added.

The bank, according to him, is deepening collaborations with key technology partners to turn digital tools into real and practical solutions for its clients.

He explained that the bank is celebrating its 18th anniversary as a licensed microfinance bank and 30 years since its initial operational kickoff.

Abubakar described the landmark achievement as concrete proof of its resilience, dedicated service and long-term impact on the communities it serves.

The Managing Director appreciated the bank's shareholders, board members, customers and partners for their steadfast loyalty, and also expressed gratitude to the management team and staff for their hard work in executing the bank's strategic goals.

The annual general meeting was officiated by the Company Secretary and Legal Adviser of the bank, Barr. Binta Ibrahim, who presented the report of the directors and corporate governance report.

According to her, the bank remained committed to institutionalising corporate governance principles and pledged to safeguard and increase shareholder value through transparent corporate governance practices.

Barr. Binta Ibrahim stated that in the year under review, the bank largely complied with the provisions of the Codes of Corporate Governance for the Central Bank of Nigeria, in addition to filing periodic returns to the Central Bank of Nigeria, Nigerian Deposit Insurance Corporation and other relevant regulatory bodies.

From its inception, ABU Microfinance Bank has been a cornerstone in providing impactful financial services to the university community and its surroundings for over three decades.

Originating as a community bank in Samaru in the early 90s, it evolved into a microfinance bank in 2007 following CBN directives, and by 2014 had transformed into a state-licensed microfinance bank, boasting a state-of-the-art corporate headquarters in Samaru and a branch at Kongo campus.