FCMB commits N20bn to private sector healthcare investment drive

First City Monument Bank (FCMB) has committed N20 billion to financing private healthcare businesses in Nigeria, including businesses across the eye-care value chain.

The financing is intended to support eligible providers with expansion, equipment purchases, infrastructure, working capital and technology investments, helping them strengthen operations and improve service delivery.

The commitment addresses the financing needs of healthcare businesses as the federal government calls for greater private-sector investment and sustained partnerships to expand access to essential services.

FCMB’s Managing Director, Yemisi Edun, said the bank’s financing solutions could help viable healthcare businesses invest in their operations and reach more Nigerians. She encouraged providers across the value chain, including eye-care businesses, to explore the available financing options.

At a public-private partnership roundtable organised by FCMB in Abuja, the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr Iziaq Salako, advocated blended finance, social impact bonds and corporate co-funding to strengthen healthcare infrastructure and expand access to services.

He also commended FCMB and the Tulsi Chanrai Foundation (TCF) for their sustained partnership in eye care and urged more businesses to adopt similar approaches.

Since 2009, more than 400,000 people have benefited from free eye-care services provided by FCMB and TCF through the Priceless Gift of Sight initiative. Services include eye testing, optical services, surgeries, and disease management.

The N20 billion financing commitment complements this work by supporting healthcare businesses that need capital to expand capacity and improve care.