… Bank disburses ₦6.41bn in agricultural loans to 9,857 farmers
… Crosses ₦1bn mark in clean-energy financing, transitions 20 branches to solar power
… Adopts IFRS S1, S2 sustainability disclosure standards
Rashidat O. Okunlade Writes, Lagos
LAPO Microfinance Bank (LAPO MfB) strengthened its sustainability footprint in the first half of 2026, deploying billions of naira to green, agricultural, and climate-related financing while expanding clean-energy access, social investments, and responsible governance.
The Bank’s sustainability drive recorded a strong start in the first quarter, with ₦824.5 million disbursed through its Go Green, Go Clean, and Aqua Plus programmes. The momentum accelerated in the second quarter, as LAPO MfB disbursed ₦6.41 billion in agricultural loans to 9,857 farmers, including ₦4.70 billion in Climate Adapt Input Finance to 7,742 clients.
Clean-Energy Milestone
The Bank also crossed the ₦1 billion mark in clean-energy financing during Q2, supporting access to solar home systems and other renewable-energy solutions. It expanded its clean-energy partnership network and transitioned 20 additional branches to solar power across Nigeria, achieving 40 per cent of its annual 50-branch target.
Cleaner Mobility Financing Surges
LAPO also stepped up financing for cleaner mobility. Patronage of the DAG Empower Bajaj CNG Loan surged by 1,225 per cent, with ₦217.38 million disbursed for 53 units, while REXOX CNG vehicle and tricycle conversion loans were introduced in Edo, Lagos, and the Federal Capital Territory.
Sustainability Integral to Financial Inclusion
According to Oluremi Akande, Director of Marketing and Communications at LAPO Microfinance Bank, the Bank’s sustainability strategy is increasingly being driven through its core financial inclusion business.
“Sustainability is not separate from financial inclusion; it is integral to how we create lasting value for our customers and communities. Our H1 performance demonstrates how targeted financing can respond to environmental and social challenges while enabling individuals, farmers, and businesses to become more resilient and productive,” Akande said.
Social Impact Expands
The Bank’s social impact programmes also expanded during the period:
More than 1,000 people have benefited from its skills acquisition programme
Over 4,000 students have benefited from its scholarship scheme since inception
Healthcare interventions reached more than 1,000 community members
Environmental initiatives included the Waste-to-Wealth project, afforestation, and coastal clean-up activities
Financial Inclusion Drive
LAPO’s financial inclusion drive reached more than 200,000 people through market engagements in Lagos and Ibadan, resulting in 2,885 new accounts and ₦65.97 million in deposits.
Governance Milestone: IFRS S1, S2 Adoption
A major governance milestone during the period was the Bank’s completion of the documentation requirements for the adoption of IFRS S1 and IFRS S2 sustainability disclosure standards, following specialised training by the Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria (FRCN).
The development positions the financial institution among the early adopters of the sustainability disclosure framework within the Nigerian microfinance subsector and aligns its reporting journey with the global standards developed by the International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB).
Strengthening Workplace Safety
The Bank also strengthened its governance and workplace safety systems during H1, completing its annual Board Evaluation, holding 30 Board and Committee meetings, automating its Occupational Health and Safety Management System, and servicing 514 first-aid boxes and 1,104 fire extinguishers nationwide.
Outlook for H2 2026
LAPO MfB said it would sustain the momentum in the second half of the year by expanding green and climate-smart financing, increasing renewable-energy access, and deepening its social impact while strengthening sustainability reporting and governance.
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Rashidat Olushola Okunlade
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