Citizens Bank PLC has formally inaugurated a new branch in Lohagara, Chattogram, marking a further step in its strategy to deepen financial inclusion and extend structured banking services to semi-urban and peripheral regions of Bangladesh. The expansion reflects the bank’s broader commitment to supporting grassroots economic activity and strengthening access to formal finance beyond major metropolitan centres.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by the bank’s Managing Director, Alamgir Hossain, as chief guest. The Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) of Lohagara, Md. Saiful Islam, joined as special guest. Deputy Managing Directors Md. Mostafizur Rahman and Md. Abdul Latif were also present, alongside senior bank officials, local business leaders and representatives of various professional bodies.
In his address, the Managing Director described the Lohagara branch as a significant component of the bank’s ongoing expansion blueprint. He noted that the branch will deliver comprehensive retail and corporate banking services to individual clients, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and commercial entities. Available products include deposit accounts, consumer finance, SME lending, trade finance, remittance services and advisory support for businesses.
A particular emphasis was placed on the SME sector, widely recognised as a backbone of Bangladesh’s economy. The branch will offer tailored credit solutions, working capital support, letters of credit and structured trade finance facilities. Bank officials expressed confidence that such targeted interventions would enhance the competitiveness of local entrepreneurs, stimulate employment generation and energise regional economic growth in the greater Chattogram area.
As part of the bank’s digital transformation agenda, customers of the Lohagara branch will have access to advanced mobile and internet banking platforms. These services will facilitate secure transactions, real-time account monitoring and enhanced cyber-security protocols, ensuring a technology-driven banking experience aligned with contemporary standards.
In his remarks, the UNO highlighted the challenges and prospects facing the national banking sector, underscoring the importance of governance-based lending practices, prudent risk management and productive-sector financing in maintaining macroeconomic stability.
Key Services at Lohagara Branch
| Service Category | Core Offerings |
|---|---|
| Retail Banking | Savings and current accounts, fixed deposits, consumer loans |
| SME Banking | Customised SME loans, working capital finance, business advisory services |
| Trade & Corporate Finance | Trade finance, letters of credit, structured financing solutions |
| Digital Banking | Mobile and internet banking, secure online transactions |
| Remittance Services | Domestic and international fund transfers |
By establishing this branch in Lohagara, Citizens Bank PLC reinforces its commitment to inclusive, development-oriented banking. The move not only broadens its operational footprint in the Chattogram region but also aligns with national objectives of expanding formal financial services and supporting sustainable economic growth across Bangladesh.