In a landmark step marking a stride in partnership and community growth, Umuchinemere Procredit Microfinance Bank opened its branch office at the State University of Medical and Applied Sciences (SUMAS), Igbo-Eno, on 15 October 2025, for the community.
The opening ceremony was graced by top university officials, traditional rulers, staff, students and representatives of the banking institution. Present at the occasion were the Vice-Chancellor of SUMAS, Prof. James C. Ogbonna, the Registrar, Dr. Anselm U. Onah, the University Librarian, Dr. (Mrs.) Monica Eze, and the University Bursar, Dr. Elvis Ozoabide.
Also in attendance were esteemed Royal fathers from the Igbo-Eno host communities, including HRH Onah Euwastus (Uchenna I of Obo-Omu), HRH Dr C. C. Nnamani (JP) (Eze Ochiuodo I of Likke Iheaka), and Ichie Engr. Onyema Odo (Onowu II of Ohom Orba). The management team of Umuchinemere Procredit Microfinance Bank was led by Mr. Charles Udeani, the Managing Director, alongside Dr. Odinaka Okeke, the Head of Operations.
In his opening address, Prof Ogbonna praised the partnership between SUMAS and Umuchinemere Bank. He called it a notable step towards boosting financial inclusion, a savings culture and enterprise among students and staff.
In his opening address, Prof Ogbonna highlighted the partnership between SUMAS and Umuchinemere Bank as a big step towards wider financial inclusion and building a habit of saving and enterprise among students and staff.
He said having the bank on campus would make day-to-day transactions easy and support staff welfare and student growth.
Speaking at the event, Mr Udeani said the bank is committed to reliable, innovative, and accessible services shaped for the university community. He added that the new branch will act as an economic hub for SUMAS and nearby areas.
Traditional rulers and community leaders welcomed the move, calling it a driver of local economic growth and closer institutional ties.
Highlight of the ceremony included, goodwill messages from guests, a tour of the new banking facility, the official cutting of the ribbon, symbolizing the commencement of full banking operations and the opening of account by the SUMAS Management Team and guests at the Umuchinemere Procredit Microfinance Bank SUMAS Branch Office.
