As Nigeria’s circular economy gathers momentum, financial institutions are increasingly developing products tailored to businesses driving sustainable growth.

Keystone Bank Limited has launched the EcoCycle Account, a specialised banking solution designed to support enterprises operating within Nigeria’s emerging green economy, providing access to financing, business advisory services and capacity-building programmes.

The initiative comes as more entrepreneurs explore opportunities in recycling, waste management and sustainable manufacturing, transforming discarded materials into commercial products while contributing to environmental sustainability.

Despite growing interest in the sector, many green businesses continue to face challenges accessing financing tailored to their operational needs.

According to the bank, the EcoCycle Account seeks to bridge that gap by offering businesses working capital, equipment financing and expansion funding on competitive terms, alongside access to business development resources through Keystone Bank’s MSME Online Academy.

Speaking on the initiative, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Keystone Bank, Hassan Imam, said the product was designed to address both the financial and knowledge gaps limiting the growth of circular economy enterprises.

“As a bank, our goal is not just to provide financial services but to enable a thriving ecosystem where green businesses can grow, scale and create lasting impact,” he said.

Beyond financial services, the bank said it is supporting entrepreneurship within the sustainability sector through programmes such as the Greenpreneur 2026 World Environment Day initiative, organised in partnership with the UNILAG Green Hub.

The programme brought together entrepreneurs, environmental advocates and aspiring business owners for practical sessions on developing commercially viable products from recycled plastics while promoting innovation within the circular economy.

Imam said such initiatives form part of the bank’s broader sustainability strategy.

“We recognise that the future of economic growth lies in sustainability. By supporting green entrepreneurs with the right tools, partnerships and knowledge, we are helping to shape a more resilient and environmentally responsible economy,” he said.

The Guardian reports that Nigeria’s circular economy, driven by increasing environmental awareness, urbanisation and the need for sustainable resource management, has been identified as one of the country’s emerging growth sectors.

With growing investment in recycling, waste recovery and green manufacturing, stakeholders believe access to specialised financial products will play an important role in helping businesses scale their operations and contribute to job creation.

Through the EcoCycle Account and its wider ecosystem approach, Keystone Bank aims to position itself as a financial partner for enterprises working to advance Nigeria’s transition towards a more sustainable and resource-efficient economy.