Access Bank (Ghana) Plc has announced a strategic shift from balance sheet expansion to disciplined earnings growth and improved operational efficiency. The bank recorded a GHS 19.02 billion balance sheet for the 2025 financial year.
This represents a 14.9% year-on-year increase, driven by strong deposit mobilisation, expanded lending, and retained earnings. The new strategy aims to convert this significant scale into sustainable shareholder value.
This move is important for Ghana's banking sector, which has seen robust growth in recent years despite economic challenges. Many banks are now focusing on optimizing their operations and improving profitability ratios. Access Bank Ghana’s substantial balance sheet growth shows a strengthening financial position within the country’s competitive landscape.
Ms. Ama Sarpong Bawuah, Board Chairperson of Access Bank (Ghana) Plc, highlighted the bank's resilience. She noted the bank’s disciplined execution, customer-focused innovation, and the dedication of its staff. Ms. Bawuah stated, “We remain focused on creating sustainable value for our shareholders while supporting businesses, communities and Ghana’s broader economic development.”
Looking ahead, Access Bank Ghana plans to implement a three-pillar strategy: Grow, Transform, and Protect. The 'Grow' pillar will deepen customer relationships and expand quality lending across various sectors. The 'Transform' pillar will accelerate digital adoption and improve operational efficiency. The 'Protect' pillar focuses on disciplined risk management and capital preservation. This strategic direction indicates a proactive approach to market dynamics and regulatory requirements.
The bank's total equity rose to GHS 2.04 billion, entirely supported by retained earnings. Customer deposits increased by 11.5% to GHS 14.54 billion, demonstrating strong customer confidence. The loan book saw a significant expansion of 36.7%, reaching GHS 5.06 billion, tripling its size since 2022.
Ms. Pearl Nkrumah, Managing Director of Access Bank (Ghana) Plc, reiterated the bank's readiness for this new phase. She emphasized that the balance sheet, deposit franchise, branch network, and digital infrastructure are now firmly established. Ms. Nkrumah added, “The work ahead is to deploy that foundation purposefully, deepen value for our customers, create sustainable returns for our shareholders and strengthen our contribution to Ghana’s broader economic development.”
Shareholders at the 18th Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Accra on June 19, 2026, approved the 2025 audited financial statements. They also endorsed key board appointments to strengthen governance. These included the re-election of Miss Hadiza Ambursa and Mrs. Yvette Adounvo Atekpe, and the appointment of Prof. David Dodoo-Arhin as Independent Non-Executive Directors. Mr. Eugene Ocansey was appointed Executive Director for Retail and SME Banking, and Mr. Nana Kwabena Afoom as Executive Director for Wholesale Banking.
Shareholders commended the management for their disciplined stewardship. They also encouraged the bank to sustain balance sheet growth while improving earnings and shareholder returns. The bank’s proposed dividend is awaiting approval from the Bank of Ghana.
Beyond its financial achievements, Access Bank Ghana also received recognition as the Best Bank in SME Customer Experience 2025 by KPMG. It was also named Ghana’s Best Bank 2025 at the Euromoney Awards and received the Global Finance Best Bank Award 2025. These accolades reflect its commitment to customer service and innovation. The bank’s “A Sandal More for a Better Tomorrow” initiative, which distributed over 31,000 sandals made from recycled tyres and supported 500 shoemakers, showcases its dedication to community impact and sustainability.