Sanwo-Olu: Optimus Bank Set to Uplift People Out of Poverty

Bennett Oghifo

Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has stated that Optimus Bank is set to lift the people out of poverty, as he cut the ribbon to formally launch the bank into Nigeria’s financial landscape.

The grand opening and formal launch of Optimus Bank took place at its headquarters on Bishop Oluwole Street, Victoria Island, Lagos, yesterday.

According to Governor Sanwo-Olu, “Optimus Bank will not only play a crucial role in the banking sector and the established organisations but also in start-ups and SMEs. They are set to lift the people out of poverty.”

praised Optimus Bank for employing cutting-edge technology and innovative practices, which align with the state’s push for technological advancement and financial modernisation.”

The governor further commended the commitment of Optimus Bank towards being customer-centric stating that the bank has the interest of its customers at heart and is ready to journey with each customer individually.

He said Optimism Bank’s service “will take personal banking to another level” and that it is willing to collaborate with not only the Lagos State Government in every sector but also with Nigerians in financial transactions.

He assured Optimus Bank of the support of the state government and promised to continually make the state conduceive for business to thrive.

He described Optimus Bank as”People-centric and consumer-focused,” urging Nigerians to “encourage Optimus Bank with the changes it will bring.”

At a pre-launch press conference, the Chairman of the Board of Directors of Optimus Bank, Mr. Oghogho Akpata said, “Optimus Bank is founded on principles of trust, transparency, and unwavering dedication to our customers and stakeholders. Our commitment to excellence propels us towards embracing innovation, delivering state-of-the-art banking solutions tailored to your needs, and nurturing meaningful relationships. With a devoted team and a customer-centric ethos, we pledge to lead in the digital era by promoting financial inclusion, supporting sustainable initiatives, and effecting positive change in the communities we serve. Together, we shall build a resilient future for Optimus Bank, guided by unwavering integrity and a vision of prosperity that transcends time.

“Commencing operations on January 16, 2023, shortly after securing a National Commercial Banking License from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) on October 21, 2022, Optimus Bank has swiftly outpaced its contemporaries in the financial sector. With a laser focus on customer satisfaction and digital innovation, the bank has made impressive strides in the ever-evolving economic landscape.”

The Managing Director of Optimus Bank, Dr. Ademola Odeyemi stated that, “The launch of Optimus Bank Limited marks a new chapter in the financial sector – one that dismantles barriers and creates opportunities for everyone. Our impetus lies in delivering exceptional banking solutions and fostering positive change, ensuring that no one is left behind in their pursuit of financial prosperity. We eagerly anticipate empowering our customers to accomplish their aspirations and make a significant impact in their immediate surroundings.”

At the heart of Optimus Bank’s identity lies a clear vision: to be the go-to platform that empowers both individuals and enterprises, offering them the tools and opportunities essential for flourishing. The bank envisions a world where financial services transcend barriers, fostering inclusivity and catering to the unique needs of its diverse customer base. Through innovative and customised strategies, Optimus Bank seeks to reshape the traditional banking landscape with cutting-edge technology, thereby pioneering a more promising financial future for all.

The core values of Optimus Bank serve as the bedrock guiding every decision and interaction. These values encompass integrity, customer obsession, innovation, impact, and redefinition of banking norms.

Leveraging a fresh tagline – “New Solutions, Unique Experiences” – Optimus Bank is dedicated to offering customers a diverse range of innovative solutions that cater to their distinctive financial needs. Centered on a customer-centric philosophy, the bank aims to reshape traditional banking norms by embracing the latest technologies and delivering seamless digital experiences, exemplified by the OptiVerse Mobile App.

Optimus Bank’s commitment extends to streamlining transactions, ensuring their safety and speed. The bank harnesses technology to drive business growth and enhance efficiency.

By leveraging cutting-edge technologies, the bank’s mobile and web applications empower customers to access and utilize platforms with ease, regardless of their location.

“With Optimus Bank’s proprietary platform – the OptiVerse Mobile App – new customers can establish bank accounts in under three minutes, while existing clients can seamlessly upgrade their accounts online, eliminating the need for branch visits. The bank’s physical branches harmoniously integrate with digital channels, offering customers a seamless banking experience.”

According to the managing director, “Optimus Bank is open for business and extends an invitation to individuals and businesses alike to join this transformative journey. Armed with an extensive array of products and services tailored to meet the unique requirements of its diverse clientele, Optimus Bank aspires to be the trusted and dependable financial partner of choice.”

In the ever-evolving financial space of Nigeria, Optimus Bank has emerged to challenge the status quo and bring a fresh approach to banking services.

With a strong commitment to innovation, customer satisfaction, and digitalisation, Optimus Bank aims to be the preferred financial services provider for both individuals and corporate clients.

Earlier, the Head of Corporate Communication, Optimus Bank, Oyinade Osobajo, stated that the bank had been a game changer in the industry since its inception and “has truly redefined conventional banking practices through its cutting-edge solutions, prioritizing customer satisfaction, and digitalisation.

“While opportunities abound, challenges exist, and this is why Optimus Bank recognizes that strategic growth and expansion plans are crucial for carving out a niche, building a strong customer base, and establishing a legacy in the highly competitive market. Following this, the institution has developed strategies and initiatives which will position it as a key player in the financial services industry.”

A central pillar of Optimus Bank’s strategy, she said, is its emphasis on technology-driven innovations. By leveraging the latest advancements in finance, artificial intelligence, and data analytics, the bank aims to streamline operations, enhance customer experiences, and maintain a competitive edge in the market. The bank’s focus on modern cybersecurity measures further instills trust and confidence among customers in an increasingly digitized landscape.

Optimus Bank further emphasized its commitment towards a comprehensive digital banking ecosystem which is evident through its investment in online and mobile banking platforms. The Optiverse mobile banking application, along with retail and corporate Internet banking solutions, provides customers with a seamless and convenient way to access financial services and personalized insights.

Optimus Bank’s approach to customer engagement stands out through its utilisation of advanced analytics. The bank analyzes transaction patterns using machine learning to tailor its products and services according to customer preferences, fostering customer loyalty and retention.

Furthermore, Optimus Bank places a high value on customer obsession. It said in its statement that “the bank understands that exceptional customer service is the backbone of any successful business and therefore intends to focus on enhancing the overall customer experience through personalized services, quick query resolutions, and efficient dispute handling which will help build customer loyalty and advocacy. It plans to continually invest in customer relationship management tools and staff training to offer superior service that will ensure customers remain satisfied and engaged.”

In line with the Central Bank of Nigeria’s push for financial inclusion, Optimus Bank is set to play a significant role. With plans to establish an agency banking business targeting underserved communities and rural areas, the bank aims to bring more Nigerians into the formal banking system. By forming strategic partnerships with local organizations and offering tailored products, Optimus Bank hopes to foster financial empowerment and contribute to economic growth.

Despite its technology focus, the bank also recognizes the importance of physical branches. Optimus Bank plans to strategically expand its branch network to provide face-to-face interactions, convenience, and brand visibility to its customers.

Optimus Bank’s commitment to talent development and employee engagement underscores its dedication to growth and success. The bank aims to attract and retain skilled professionals who align with its values, fostering a positive work culture through training and development programmes.

As a new entrant to the market, Optimus Bank Limited is poised to make a lasting impact on Nigeria’s financial services sector. Through digital innovation, financial inclusion efforts, and tailored solutions, the bank seeks to carve a niche for itself and contribute to the country’s economic growth.