Uniuyo MFB Unveils WashLoan Scheme To Boost Water, Sanitation Access
Loan Scheme Targets Water and Sanitation Needs
THE University of Uyo Microfinance Bank (Uniuyo MfB) has launched a specialised loan facility known as WashLoan, aimed at improving access to safe water, sanitation and hygiene services within the university community and surrounding areas.
The initiative, unveiled at the University of Uyo in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, is designed to provide affordable financing for households, schools, landlords and small businesses seeking to invest in water and sanitation infrastructure.
Managing Director of the bank, Millicent Idiong, said the programme reflects the institution’s commitment to supporting public health and sustainable development through inclusive financial services.
Partnership to Expand Water Access
According to Idiong, the WashLoan initiative was developed in partnership with Water.org, a global civil society organisation focused on improving access to safe water, and the National Association of Microfinance Banks (NAMB), the umbrella body representing microfinance banks across Nigeria.
She said the programme seeks to address persistent gaps in access to potable water and sanitation facilities affecting many households and institutions.
“Access to clean water and proper sanitation is not a luxury; it is a basic human right,” Idiong said.
“Unfortunately, many homes, schools and small businesses still struggle to secure these basic services. Through WashLoan, we are making it clear that no family should have to struggle for safe water, and no community should be left behind because of inadequate sanitation.”
Flexible Financing for Communities
Idiong explained that the loan product has been structured to be affordable, flexible and easily accessible, enabling beneficiaries to finance projects such as boreholes, water storage systems, sanitation facilities and other hygiene-related infrastructure.
She emphasised that beyond financing physical infrastructure, the programme is intended to promote broader social benefits.
“By providing this financing, we are supporting health, dignity, productivity and community resilience,” she said.
She also expressed appreciation to Water.org and NAMB for their collaboration in advancing water and sanitation access in the university community.
Stakeholders Applaud Initiative
Speaking at the event, Senior Relationship Account Manager at Water.org, Gilbert Okpono, described the loan product as an innovative financial solution capable of improving access to safe water across communities.
“The launch of this WashLoan product provides a beacon of hope for achieving universal access to safe water and sanitation, not only in Akwa Ibom but across Nigeria,” Okpono said.
He noted that the initiative would support households and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in making sustainable investments in water and sanitation infrastructure.
Similarly, the National President of the National Association of Microfinance Banks, Abubakar Ahmad, commended the partnership, describing it as an example of how collaboration among financial institutions and development organisations can deliver tangible benefits for communities.
He added that NAMB would continue to pursue partnerships aimed at promoting sustainable and life-impacting initiatives for its clients nationwide.
