The Association of Corporate Affairs Managers of Banks (ACAMB) on Friday, June 12, 2026, officially commenced activities marking its 30th Anniversary celebration with a symbolic tree-planting exercise held on Providence Street, Lekki Phase 1, Lagos. The event attracted Group Heads and Heads of Corporate Communications from various banks across Nigeria, underscoring the significance of the milestone in the history of the banking communications profession.
A major highlight of the event was the unveiling of the Association’s 30th Anniversary logo by the Registrar/Chief Executive Officer of the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN), Mr. Akin Morakinyo, HCIB. In his address, Morakinyo commended ACAMB for its longstanding collaboration and support of the Institute’s activities. He noted that tree planting symbolizes growth, longevity, and sustainability, adding that the exercise reflects the Association’s commitment to preserving and promoting the image and reputation of the banking industry.
Following his remarks, the CIBN Registrar formally declared the anniversary celebrations open through the unveiling of the commemorative logo. He described the anniversary as a celebration dedicated to the glory of God and the service of humanity, while encouraging members of the Association to continue upholding professionalism and ethical standards in the discharge of their duties.
The event also featured a historical reflection on the formation of ACAMB by one of its founding members, Dr. Nkechi Ali-Balogun. She recalled that the Association was established in 1996 by representatives of five institutions—IBWA (later Afribank), Union Bank, NEXIM Bank, First Bank, and the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). According to her, the initiative was championed by the late Mr. Dangogo of the CBN, who convened meetings at Kuramo Lodge, Eko Hotel, Lagos, with the objective of fostering unity among banks and promoting responsible marketing practices within the industry.
Supporting the historical account, a member of the Association’s Board of Trustees, Mr. Ogie Eboigbe, explained that the formation of ACAMB was largely driven by concerns over the unhealthy practice of banks de-marketing one another. He noted that some institutions often sought to attract customers by portraying rival banks negatively, a development that prompted the CBN to introduce policies and sanctions aimed at curbing such conduct. Dr. Ali-Balogun added that the environment at the time inspired several branding initiatives, including First Bank’s memorable slogan, “First Bank, Truly the First.”
Despite a heavy downpour during the exercise, senior banking executives, including General Managers, Group Heads, and Heads of Departments, proceeded to plant trees, demonstrating remarkable commitment to the cause. Their action echoed the earlier remarks of ACAMB President, Mr. Jide Sipe, who had declared that neither rain nor sunshine would prevent bankers from achieving their objectives. The participants embraced the weather with enthusiasm, turning the exercise into a memorable and enjoyable experience for all in attendance.
Speaking on the anniversary programme, Mr. Sipe outlined a series of activities scheduled to run through September 2026, culminating in a grand gala night. He also announced that a golf tournament, one of the flagship events of the celebration, would take place on June 27, 2026, at Ikoyi Club, Lagos. The tree-planting exercise, he said, represents ACAMB’s commitment to environmental sustainability and serves as a fitting symbol of the Association’s growth and enduring impact over the past three decades.
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