The Development Bank of Nigeria (DBN) has been awarded the prestigious $400,000 Prince Talal International Prize for championing United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 8 on Decent Work and Economic Growth. The bank won first place among over 100 entrants in the competitive category.
The annual award organised by the Arab Gulf Programme for Development recognises outstanding initiatives aligned with UN member states’ 2030 Agenda. Applicants demonstrate contributions to economic growth and job creation in their communities.
“This prize validates our absolute commitment to furthering sustainability and green development globally,” said DBN Managing Director Tony Okpanachi. He thanked the AGFUND organisers and partners for the honour.
Okpanachi added that the $400,000 would help plug financing gaps impeding Nigeria’s micro, small, and medium enterprises while growing capacity for impactful, viable green projects.
Estimates show Nigeria requires $122 billion before 2030 to sufficiently develop the sustainability sector and meet development goals. Okpanachi asserts that the DBN spearheads vital investment efforts, and the prize money furthers its headway.
As the Development Bank of Nigeria advances decent work and economic growth per SDG 8, its emphasis on sustainability unlocks lasting national progress. The bank well deserves this international recognition.