Kumasi, Jan 16, GNA - Dr Paa Kwesi Nduom, Presidential Candidate of the Convention Peoples Party (CPP) in the recent general polls, has tasked Ghanaian traders to endeavour to make judicious use of the loans given to them by financial institutions. He said loans meant to expand their businesses should not be use for other purposes that could collapse their enterprises. Dr. Nduom made the call at the maiden Best Customer Award Ceremony of the Ashanti Regional Branch of the First National Savings and Loans Bank in Kumasi on Thursday.

He stressed the need for Ghanaian traders to adopt practices such as effective record keeping and sharpening of marketing skills to help facilitate the achievement of their goals. Dr Nduom who is also the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Bank said the Bank started operations in June 2006 and that they have over 26,000 customers as of now. He indicated that his outfit intended to expand the Bank's services to the other regions, noting that as of now the Bank has branches in four regions.

Mr Johnny Achibrah, Ashanti Regional Manager of the Bank, noted that the bank had given loans worth several thousands of Ghana cedis to about 900 traders in the region. He commended the award winners for their diligence to duty and hoped they would keep faith with the bank. Madam Lucy Akosua Pokuah, Mrs Vida Appiagyei, Mr Sampson Manu and Mr Kwame Yeboah-Brenyah, who were the award winners, was each given a 21 inch colour television for their dedicated loyalty to the bank.