Awutu Bawjiase (C/R), Sept 12, GNA - Mr Emmanuel Kwapong, the Managing director of the ARB Apex Bank, has said persons elected to serve as board members should not practice favouritism and nepotism. ''It is only through experience, skills, knowledge and competencies that banks can achieve overall corporate objectives.''

Mr Kwapong said this in an address read for him at the 15th Annual General Meeting of the Awutu Bawjiase Area Rural Bank Limited at Awutu Bawjiase.

He said one of the critical issues facing the rural banking system was the issue of good corporate governance. ''The Apex Bank has taken steps to facilitate the provision of vital support services to the rural banks.''

"Already, supply services are being rendered to all rural banks in the country through the use of bullion vans and the Bawjiase Area Bank has taken full advantage of this service to enhance its operation.'' Mr Emmanuel Osei, the Chairman of the Board of Directors of the bank, said despite difficulties the bank's performance for the past seven years has been satisfactory.