NOVA Bank opens Owerri regional office

NOVA Bank has taken a major step in its regional expansion drive with the commissioning of its flagship South-East/South-South regional office in Owerri, a move the Imo State Government says will accelerate economic growth and deepen financial inclusion across the region.

At the ceremony, Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodinma, announced the State Government’s commitment to provide land for the development of NOVA Bank’s permanent regional headquarters in Owerri, describing the decision as a strategic partnership aligned with the state’s long-term development agenda. The event attracted top government officials, leading business figures from the South-East and South-South, as well as Nigerians in the diaspora who returned home to witness what was described as a landmark moment for the regional banking landscape.

Uzodinma said NOVA Bank’s entry into Imo State fits squarely into the government’s deliberate push to build a sustainable economic base through infrastructure development, improved road networks and market-driven reforms. He described the bank as one of the “smart first movers” that have identified emerging opportunities in the region and positioned early to lead the next phase of growth. The governor also praised NOVA Bank’s phygital banking model, which combines physical branch presence with robust digital platforms, noting that it aligns with Imo State’s zero tolerance for outdated analogue systems.

“In recognition of NOVA Bank’s vision and long-term commitment to the region, the Imo State Government will allocate a befitting piece of land in a choice location for the development of its permanent South-East/South-South Regional Headquarters,” Uzodinma said.

Speaking at the commissioning, Chairman of NOVA Bank, Phillips Oduoza, thanked the Imo State Government and people of the state for what he described as a warm reception and strong partnership.

“The opening of our Regional Office in Owerri marks a strategic milestone in NOVA Bank’s national expansion and reinforces our long-term commitment to the South-East and the broader South. Owerri is not just another location for us; it is a flagship hub and a launchpad for deeper market penetration across the region, reflecting our strong confidence in its economic potential.”

He said the bank’s growth strategy is driven by discipline, strong fundamentals, innovation and sustainable value creation for investors and the wider business community.

“NOVA Bank is not merely expanding its physical footprint. We are deploying scalable digital infrastructure and innovative financial solutions designed to support SMEs, retail businesses, corporates, public-sector institutions, HNIs and the mass market,” he added.

According to Oduoza, the planned regional headquarters in Owerri will serve as a catalyst for job creation, enterprise growth, easier access to credit and deeper financial inclusion across the South-East and South-South.

“NOVA Bank remains focused on building a resilient, future-ready institution that delivers sustainable value to customers, partners and shareholders alike,” he concluded.

With the commissioning of the Owerri regional office, NOVA Bank has reinforced its ambition to redefine banking in the South-East and South-South, positioning itself as a long-term partner in driving innovation, business growth and sustainable economic development across the region.