The marketing drive of English Premier League club, Arsenal, in Nigeria got a boost as the club announced a 3-year deal with Sterling Bank, one of the commercial banks in the country.

In a statement on the club’s website, Arsenal revealed that the deal will see the bank issue co-branded debit cards in Nigeria, Africa’s second-biggest economy.

This is a huge development for both parties as card users will be offered a variety of benefits from the two companies, which include official merchandise and tickets to see the team in action at Emirates Stadium in London.

From a sporting angle, the partnership will see Arsenal Soccer School coaches undertake a youth coaching clinic on behalf of Sterling Bank in Nigeria.

Speaking about the deal, Sterling Bank’s CFO, Abubakar Suleiman said the deal shows how much the bank wants to see fans achieve their passion. According to him, “We recognise our customer’s uniqueness and we develop tailor-made solutions that connect with their deepest passion and drive.”

In the same vein, Arsenal’s head of global partnership Vinai Venkatesham, ethusiastic about the partnership as the club continues its drive in Nigeria, said: “We are delighted to be partnering with Sterling Bank, a highly respected financial establishment, to offer Arsenal branded debit cards to our millions of fans in Nigeria.

“We look forward to building a strong and successful relationship in the years to come.”

Sterling Bank is the third company in Nigeria to partner with Arsenal in the last 18 months. Telecom giant, Airtel as well as Malta Guiness, a brand off the stables of Guinness Nigeria Plc have also partnered with the London club.