Access Bank is eyeing a broader partnership with the Zambian Air Force

Access Bank Zambia says it is looking to deepen its partnership with the Zambian Air Force (ZAF) beyond its sponsorship of the Red Arrows Rugby Club (RARC).

Managing Director of Access Bank Zambia, Dr Iheanyi Nwogu, said the bank’s relationship with the Zambian Air Force extends beyond rugby, but also noted that the institution also acts as a trusted financial partner through the management of payroll and operational accounts.

“Our relationship with the Zambian Air Force is not just limited to rugby. Access Bank is privileged to act as a trusted financial partner, including through the management of payroll and operational accounts. We value that trust and remain committed to providing reliable service to the institution and its personnel,” Nwogu said.

He was speaking during the official presentation of the Red Arrows Rugby Club’s new playing kit to the Zambia Air Force Command and Zambia Access Bank at the Zambia Air Force Headquarters on Friday.

Nwogu said the bank was open to expanding its relationship with the Zambian Air Force into areas that could support institutional growth and benefit society.

“For Access Bank, the strength of partnerships lies in what can be realized. We want our collaboration to support institutional growth, provide benefits to society, and create opportunities that provide long-term value,” he said.

He said Access Bank, which positions itself as “Africa’s Gateway to the World”, is ready to leverage its financial expertise and network across Africa and beyond to support the objectives of the Zambia Air Force and Zambia’s development.

Nwogu also praised the Red Arrows Rugby Club for its performance this season, saying the club has shown consistency and determination while remaining in contention for league honors and performing strongly in tournaments.

“We are very encouraged by the Club’s performance this season. Remaining steadfast in the fight for the league title while performing strongly in the tournament shows consistency, determination and a winning mentality,” he said.

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Meanwhile, Zambia Air Force Commander Lieutenant General, Oscar Msitu Nyoni, commended Access Bank Zambia for its continued partnership with Red Arrows Rugby Club, and described the sponsorship as a valuable contribution to the development of sporting talent and youth in the country.

Lt Gen Nyoni said sport plays an important role in improving physical fitness, discipline, teamwork, leadership and character development, qualities that are equally important in the military profession.

He noted that Red Arrows Rugby Club has cemented its position as one of the leading rugby clubs in Zambia, having won 14 league titles, and said its performance this season reflects its determination to maintain a strong winning culture.

While acknowledging the club’s achievements, Lt Gen Nyoni reminded the players and officials that success brings responsibility.

He urged the club to continue investing in player development, strengthen women’s rugby, identify new talent and proudly represent the Zambian Air Force.

Lt Gen Nyoni described the new playing kit as more than just a uniform, saying it reflects the identity, heritage and values ​​of the Red Arrows Rugby Club, the Zambian Air Force and its partners.

While addressing the players, he encouraged them to wear the new uniform with pride and ensure that their conduct, both on and off the field, reflects the values ​​and professionalism of the Zambian Air Force.

He also called on the club management and coaching staff to create an environment that allows players to excel while developing the next generation of Red Arrows Rugby talent.

The ceremony was attended by members of Air Force Command, senior Access Bank executives, Red Arrows Rugby Club management, coaches, players and other representatives from both institutions.