Access Bank, a leading financial institution, has made a significant stride in the credit card market by unveiling two highly anticipated consumer credit cards: the Access Bank American Express Gold Card and the Metal Platinum Card.
These cards mark the inaugural introduction of American Express in Nigeria and West Africa, becoming the first-ever to be issued in the region. American Express is a globally recognized brand known for its premium services and benefits.
Outside of Nigeria, you can find similar products offered by American Express or third-party entities authorized by American Express. These offerings grant cardholders a wide range of rewards and benefits.
This partnership between Access Bank and American Express brings a new level of convenience and prestige to Nigerian consumers.
Access Bank has significantly enhanced its overall range of services for both retail and private bank customers through the introduction of these cards. This strategic move has allowed customers to benefit from the Membership Rewards loyalty program and an extensive array of travel and lifestyle advantages, thereby elevating their banking experience to new heights.
In the year 2019, Access Bank forged a partnership with American Express, laying the groundwork to facilitate merchant acquisitions. This collaboration aimed to empower businesses throughout the nation, granting them the capability to receive payments from American Express Cards issued abroad.
As a significant milestone, Access Bank has reached the stage where it is prepared to introduce the inaugural American Express credit cards in West Africa.
In addition to providing dual-currency functionality (NGN/USD) and being widely accepted internationally, American Express cards offer a range of exclusive benefits.
These include access to airport lounges, perks for car rentals, membership rewards, loyalty points, as well as insurance coverage and protections.
The Platinum Card takes these features a step further by providing enhanced airport lounge benefits. Cardholders can enjoy complimentary access to over 1,400 lounges worldwide through the American Express Global Lounge Collection.
Furthermore, the Platinum Card offers a variety of hotel perks and upgrades through The Hotel Collection and Fine Hotels + Resorts. It also grants special status access to esteemed loyalty programs such as Hilton Honours, Radisson Rewards, and Marriott Bonvoy.
Cardholders can also enjoy complimentary access to prestigious hotel membership programs, including Tablet Plus membership and Mr & Mrs. Smith Gold status. Additionally, 24/7 travel and lifestyle concierge services are available to cater to the needs of Platinum Card members.
Herbert Wigwe, the Group Managing Director of Access Holdings, announced that the cards will be accessible upon request and invitation. Customers who have expressed their interest will have the opportunity to start using the cards starting from today, Tuesday, June 13, 2023.
He proudly stated, “Our bank has a remarkable history of being pioneers in the industry. We possess an extensive network, and through this collaboration, AMEX will gain the support of 60 million customers. This partnership serves as a monumental endorsement, demonstrating our privilege to collaborate with AMEX.”
“As a bank with a rich history of excellence, we are excited to extend this legacy through our partnership with American Express. It brings us great joy to know that our valued customers will now have access to the exceptional qualities and benefits offered by these cards, enhancing their overall banking experience. “
During the simultaneous launch of the cards in London, Roosevelt Ogbonna, the Managing Director and CEO of Access Bank, emphasized the significance of introducing American Express Cards in Nigeria, stating, “This event marks a remarkable milestone in the ongoing evolution of a dynamic and rapidly expanding payments sector. Today, customers seek more than mere transactions; they desire genuine value.”
Chizoma Okoli, Deputy Managing Director, Retail South, Access Bank, expressed that the introduction of credit cards is a clear demonstration of the bank’s prominent position in the country. In her statement, she emphasized Access Bank’s commitment to innovation and leadership within the Nigerian banking sector.
She further highlighted that the newly unveiled AMEX cards would be available throughout Nigeria, excluding Access Bank, and expressed confidence that their customers would greatly appreciate the associated benefits.
Victor Etiokwu, Deputy Managing Director, Retail North, acknowledged the partnership with American Express, emphasizing that it is not the initial collaboration and will certainly not be the final one.
Access Bank continues to lead the way in innovation and customer-centric offerings within the banking sector. The introduction of the Access Bank American Express Gold Card and the Metal Platinum Card reaffirms the bank’s dedication to providing top-tier financial solutions and personalized services to its esteemed clientele.
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