Why did Access Bank revamp QuickBucks?

By Chioma Obinagwam

Access Bank has revamped its digital loan platform ’QuickBucks’, to boost lending across Nigerian consumers.

The bank told Confiance News in a statement on Monday.

The bank said customers can access the bank’s digital loans for businesses, vehicle financing, school fees payment, among others. QuickBucks Loans allow customers to get that assistance fast and easily.

Since the introduction of its first digital PayDay loan in 2017, Access Bank has issued 18 million digital loans amounting to over N740 billion, enabling customers to receive up to N10 million instantly.

Njideka Esomeju, group head, consumer banking, said: “Many Nigerians are facing financial challenges due to the economic situation in the country. At Access Bank, our goal is to enable every Nigerian to achieve financial freedom, which is why we introduced digital lending solutions.”

Esomeju highlighted the accessibility of QuickBucks Loans, stating, “The loan can be accessed through the QuickBucks USSD code, the Access More app for smartphone users, or via the QuickBucks platform on web or app.” She elaborated on the platform’s evolution, noting, “Initially, our digital loans were limited to salary earners with a 30-day repayment term. Now, QuickBucks Loans offer up to 12 months of repayment time for customers with salary accounts, self-employed individuals, active account holders, as well as business and trader account holders.”

Efe Obaigbena, unit head of digital lending, emphasised the purpose and improvements of QuickBucks Loans. “These loans are designed to address our customers’ urgent financial needs,” Obaigbena said. “Since its launch in 2017, QuickBucks Loans have seen significant enhancements. As a responsible lender, we ensure our customers do not face excessive debt by capping our loans at a percentage of salary or account transactions. Eligibility also requires a good credit record across all financial institutions.”

Regarding interest rates, Esomeju stated, “Our interest rates are among the lowest in the industry, ranging from about 5 percent to a maximum of 15 percent, depending on the type of loan.” She added that QuickBucks Loans are designed for ease of access, noting, “For customers with low literacy levels, our USSD code provides a straightforward way to obtain digital loans, allowing them to join the financial system regardless of their financial knowledge.”

Oladisun Dawodu, team lead of digital lending, discussed the bank’s commitment to integrating FinTech innovations.

“Access Bank embraces FinTech culture to distinguish itself in the market. We are preparing for future advancements such as AI-based lending solutions, blockchain technology for secure transactions, and closer integration with financial ecosystems.”

Dawodu, said, “We are investing in technology and strategic actions to ensure QuickBucks Loans remain competitive and responsive to these developments.”

Dawodu said QuickBucks Loans are attractive because they are automated. “Getting a QuickBucks Loan is quick and easy, and so is repaying it. Customers just need to make sure they have enough money in their account on the due date(s) and the payment will be deducted automatically, without any hassle. Our customer support team will also contact you with messages and calls as your due date approaches.”