Access Bank Plc has unveiled an offline banking platform, 901.ng to provide customers with an additional channel to carry out their transactions and boost financial inclusion in the country, Punch reports.

Financial inclusion in Nigeria has increased to 74 per cent in 2023, up from 68 per cent in 2020.

The Central Bank of Nigeria has set a target of hitting 95 per cent in 2024.

The idea was launched in collaboration with RemitPlus, which has been championing offline banking in the country.

At the launch, which was held in Lagos, Access Bank said the solution was aimed at redefining convenience and security in banking, ensuring uninterrupted access to financial services even in the absence of internet connectivity.

The Deputy Managing Director of Access Bank, Victor Etuokwu, said, “In today’s fast-paced digital age, connectivity is often taken for granted. However, millions of individuals worldwide still face challenges accessing online banking services due to various reasons, such as poor internet infrastructure, remote locations, or security concerns. “Recognising this gap, Access Bank has developed this solution to empower our customers to bank securely, anytime, anywhere, irrespective of internet availability.

“We are committed to leveraging technology to enhance the banking experience for all our customers. With the introduction of our offline banking platform, 901.ng, we are breaking barriers and empowering individuals and businesses to manage their finances with confidence, even in offline environments.”

Also, the Group Head of Consumer Banking, Access Bank, Njideka Esomeju, said that the lender’s offline banking platform, 901.ng reaffirmed one of the bank’s core values – innovation, setting a new standard for accessibility and security in the banking industry.

“As part of its ongoing commitment to excellence, Access Bank will continue to evolve its offerings to meet the evolving needs of its diverse customer base,” she remarked.

The Head of Digital Channels at Access Bank Plc, Oluremi Tinuolu-Gabriel, added that the product was one of its kind and was launched in a bid to improve the customer experience.

“What we are bringing to the market today is the first of its kind in this part of the world. We want to ensure that customers can seamlessly do what they want to do. 901.ng allows customers to do their basic banking transactions with or without the internet,” he declared.

The CEO of RemitPlus, Emeka Madu, noted that Access Bank had been at the forefront of innovation with a large customer base, hence, they were a preferred choice.

Madu said, “Our platform is all about bridging the digital divide and helping people to be able to access financial services, which we have been able to achieve via our partner, Access Bank.”