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  • FCMB’s training programme transforming our businesses – Entrepreneurs

    FCMB’s training programme transforming our businesses – Entrepreneurs

    Dozens of entrepreneurs across the southwest are crediting a recent business training programme for helping them improve how they run their businesses and pursue growth. 

    It is the Business Empowerment, Sustainability and Training (BEST) Masterclass organised by First City Monument Bank (FCMB), which concluded its latest phase last month, delivering practical training to participants in Ogun, Oyo, Osun, Ondo, and Kwara States.

    From 12 to 21 March 2025, the initiative focused on financial management, digital marketing, business planning, and sustainable growth practices. Some participants also received free business registration through the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), supported by the bank.

    For many, the training proved more useful than expected. Jide Olaniyi, a small business owner from Kwara State, said he was initially unsure what to expect. “But I left with a deeper understanding of how to structure my business and apply digital tools. I’m already seeing the difference in how I operate,” he said.

    In Ogun State, Patricia Simisola said she gained new business skills and benefited from the free business registration support. “That was a real bonus. It gave me the push I needed to formalise my business,” she added.

    Participants also spoke about the value of engaging with other entrepreneurs. Dolapo Olayiwola, who attended the Oyo State session, said the experience gave her a new perspective. “It changed how I approach decision-making in my business,” she said. “I now have a clearer idea of how to grow without losing focus.”

    George Ogbonnaya, FCMB’s Divisional Head of Business Banking, said the programme aligns with the bank’s commitment to inclusive growth. “Our goal is not just to support entrepreneurs financially but to help them build sustainable, scalable businesses,” he said.

    Read Also: FCMB Group reports N111.9b pre-tax profit

    Since its launch in 2018, the BEST programme has trained hundreds of thousands of entrepreneurs nationwide. FCMB plans to expand the initiative to reach more entrepreneurs nationwide and provide tools beyond funding by offering education, mentorship, and access to vital business infrastructure.

    Ifeoma Ozoemena, who joined the Ondo State session, is already feeling the impact. “I now feel more confident about growing my business,” she said. I’m glad I gave it a chance.”

    The Business Empowerment, Sustainability and Training Masterclass sessions focused on practical knowledge. They covered essential topics: financial literacy, digital marketing, financial management, marketing strategies, operational optimisation, sustainable business practices, and strategic planning. Participants were part of workshops and networking sessions led by industry experts and successful entrepreneurs, encouraging them to develop actionable plans aligned with sound business principles.

    Cross section of participants and officials of FCMB at the Business Empowerment, Sustainability and Training (BEST) Masterclass organised by the Bank for entrepreneurs in Osogbo, Osun state, recently.
  • FCMB group reports N111.9 billion in Profit Before Tax for 2024

    FCMB group reports N111.9 billion in Profit Before Tax for 2024

    FCMB Group Plc (NGX: FCMB) has announced its audited financial results for the full year ended December 31, 2024, reporting a profit before tax (PBT) of N111.9 billion, a 7.1% year-on-year increase.

    The Group recorded a 53.9% increase in gross revenue at the end of December 2024, reaching N794.4 billion, driven by a 75.2% growth in interest income and an 8.7% increase in non-interest income. Net interest income grew by 27.6% to N225.3 billion, supported by improved yields on earning assets, despite a decline in net interest margin due to higher funding costs.

    FCMB Group’s digital business continued to record strong growth, with digital revenues growing by 69.2% from N60.3 billion to N101.9 billion as at December 2024. Over 1.6 million retail loans worth N148.8 billion and more than 18,000 SME loans totalling N208.2 billion were disbursed through digital channels. Assets Under Management (AUM) in digital wealth management rose to N22.4 billion as at December 2024, up from N15.1 billion in the prior year.

    Customer confidence in FCMB remained strong as deposits grew by 39.4% Year-on-Year to N4.30 trillion at the end of December 2024, compared to N3.08 trillion the preceding year. 

    Read Also: FCMB opens branch in Ogbomosho

    FCMB Group’s total assets grew by 59.5% year-on-year to N7.05 trillion from N4.42 trillion in the prior year. Additionally, the Group’s loans and advances increased by 28% to N2.36 trillion, while Assets Under Management (AUM) across the Investment Management division grew by 35% to N1.37 trillion at the end of December 2024.

    Commenting on the results, the Group Chief Executive of FCMB Group Plc, Ladi Balogun, said: “Overall, we anticipate significant earnings per share (EPS) growth in full-year 2025, underpinned by a continued momentum in our non-banking businesses, a stronger balance sheet, digital transformation, and strategic market positioning.”

    As part of its recapitalisation strategy, FCMB Group successfully raised N144.6 billion through a public offer, securing the National Banking License of its banking subsidiary. Further capital-raising plans are underway to meet the Central Bank of Nigeria’s minimum capital requirement for an International banking license.

    The Banking Group, which contributed 69.5% of the Group’s PBT, recorded a 7.7% year-on-year decline due to lower net interest margins and a decline in other gains, whilst Investment Banking declined by 35%, reflecting the impact of a one-time divestment gain recorded in 2023.

    However, the Group’s Consumer Finance division recorded an 83.5% increase in PBT, while Investment Management delivered a 27.9% growth.

    The bank plans to drive earnings growth in 2025 by optimising net interest margins through a stronger capital position, expanding digitally enabled payments and collections solutions to achieve low-cost deposit funding, and deeper engagement in premium retail and institutional banking. Consumer finance is expected to maintain its strong momentum, supported by digital innovation and new product offerings, while Investment Banking aims to capitalise on increased capital market activities. Investment Management is expected to continue its steady growth.

  • FCMB opens branch in Ogbomosho

    FCMB opens branch in Ogbomosho

    First City Monument Bank (FCMB) has expanded its footprint by launching a new branch in Ogbomosho. 

    Officials said the move will boost financial inclusion and economic development. The branch, located along the Ogbomosho-Ilorin road, was inaugurated on March 12 in a ceremony attended by local leaders.

    During the inauguration, Oba Ghandi Olaoye, the Soun of Ogbomosho, described the new bank branch as a welcome development, saying First City Monument Bank’s presence would help local businesses grow.

    “This marks a pivotal moment for our town. We anticipate that FCMB’s innovative approach will give our citizens and businesses access to vital financial services and support, enabling us to successfully realise our 25-year development plan. We are eager to collaborate with FCMB and look forward to the possibility of more branches in Ogbomosho, creating a mutually beneficial partnership,” he stated.

    Chairman of Ogo-Oluwa Local Government, Seun Ojo, echoed similar sentiments. 

    Read Also: FCMB explains new TV commercial

    He recognised FCMB’s presence as a valuable addition to enhancing financial inclusion across Ogbomosho land and urged the Bank to extend its reach to more communities to strengthen local economies.

    The Managing Director of First City Monument Bank, Mrs Yemisi Edun, represented by the Bank’s National Head of Sales, Mr Emmanuel Comla, said the bank remains committed to inclusive growth.

    She said: “We’re excited to invest in Ogbomoso’s future. It is a city known for its industrious spirit. Under Kabiyesi Olaoye’s leadership, Ogbomoso has a clear 25-year growth plan, and we are proud to be part of that vision. 

    “While digital banking is transforming the industry, physical branches remain essential for reaching everyone and directly supporting the community. This new branch will drive growth by creating opportunities and fostering partnerships. We are here to grow with you.”

    The bank’s Group Head of Operations and International Trade Services, Mr Ademola Idowu, informed the branch is equipped with modern banking technology and runs on renewable energy. He highlighted how it will support business and trade growth in Ogbomoso and its environs.

  • FCMB explains new TV commercial

    FCMB explains new TV commercial

    The First City Monument Bank (FCMB) recently launched a new television viewing commercial (TVC).

    The new advertising campaign followed its Initial Public Offering (IPO).

    The 60-second  commercial eloquently captures the essence of unity and collective strength—highlighting the diverse entities that make up the FCMB Group.

    The bank disclosed that the TVC was conceptualised to showcase the strength of FCMB Group.

     “It is about showcasing the strength of FCMB Group, showing that we are more than a bank and showing that our market success is the result of collaboration by all operating companies of the  group,” it said.

    The Chief Executive Officer of Q-Media and Communications Limited, Samuel Ajayi, commended the creative agency and the bank for coming out with a TVC that speaks to unity and teamwork.

    Read Also: Exhibitors explore opportunities for manufacturing in Nigeria

    He said: “It is a good campaign. Well thought out and brilliantly executed. At least it captures the brand essence of the bank and it also speaks to the power of the whole. And I believe that will resonate more with their customers. Secondly, the use of imagery is also commendable. I think FCMB got it perfectly right.”

    Shot on location across Lagos, Abuja, and the breathtaking Mambilla Plateau, the TVC doesn’t just tell a story about financial strength; it  celebrates Nigeria itself. Each frame showcases the nation’s diversity, natural beauty, and the power of unity—subtly reinforcing the message that, just like FCMB’s group of companies, Nigeria thrives when its diverse elements come together as one.

    Conceptualised and executed by X3M Ideas, Africa’s leading creative powerhouse, in close partnership with the FCMB team, the campaign is a testament to the power of collaboration. It reflects the very essence of its message—that teamwork makes the dream work.

    The synergy between agency and client has resulted in a commercial that is not just a brand message but a cultural statement.

    Succinctly speaking, FCMB’s new TVC does more than promote a brand; it promotes a vision of collective strength, national pride, and the power of unity. It is a bold reminder that when diverse forces come together, whether in banking or nation-building, they create something greater than the sum of their parts.

    The essence of modern day advertising campaigns are not just to inform, educate and sell a product or even stimulate the desire to purchase. Of course, getting products off the shelf is the primary aim of any marketing campaign. It is also to break consumers’ resistance in an economic environment like Nigeria’s where the purchasing power is frustratingly low.

    But it is getting deeper than that. Some advertising campaign materials are now designed to stimulate critical thinking and assessment which takes the receiver of such advertising messages to look beyond What is being sold to How it is being sold.

    There have been advertising campaign materials in recent times, but the one from the FCMB Group stands out. Not just in content, but in the underlying message as it relates to the essence of the brand that is being sold. The materials look beyond the Group’s well known banking footprints to unveil the varied deep expertise and value creation capabilities in its ecosystem across investment banking, investment management, and consumer finance that has ensured its market success.

    The advert rhetorically asks if what thrills is the chord of a solo drummer or the symphony of the orchestra. Of course, the orchestra involves more than one performer. It also pricks the viewer’s imagination by inquiring if what makes a sports team thick is the brilliance of one player of the team effort that usually gets them over the line.

    It does not end there. It also invokes rumination on whether what impresses the audience is the dancing and artistic talent of a solo dancer or the rhythmic and artistic precision of a troupe.

    The message is that FCMB Group should not just be looked at as just delivering banking services. It is more than a bank. The Group is an integrated financial services provider that is connecting people with capital and markets and building a desirable future for Nigerians.

    All these go beyond mere banking services to financial inclusion, capital raising (debt and equity), wealth management, estate management and more. The operating companies that make up the Group leverage its power to render a holistic service that transcends traditional banking. It is the power of the whole over the dexterity of just one entity no matter how good it is.

    In the campaign, FCMB captures the enduring legacy of rendering seamless integrated financial services (a one stop shop concept) and it also invokes the power of its evolution over the years which has taken it beyond its investment banking heritage.

  • FCMB Group launches ‘The Power of the Group’ campaign

    FCMB Group launches ‘The Power of the Group’ campaign

    FCMB Group Plc, a leading financial services holding company, has launched a new thematic campaign, The Power of the Group.

    At the heart of this campaign is a simple yet powerful truth: Success is not a solitary pursuit; it thrives on shared purpose and collaboration.

    The campaign’s 90-second TV commercial vividly illustrates this, contrasting individual strides with the power of collective effort. It asks: What defines true strength? One bounce, a dribble, two passes, or a team’s win? A lone step or the synchronized precision of a choreographed dance? A beat or the depth of a full symphony? Through these striking contrasts, the commercial shows that real impact is achieved through unity. True success is built on collaboration, not silos. Collaboration builds resilience, drives innovation, and helps individuals, businesses, and institutions achieve lasting impact.

    Celebrating collaboration, innovation, and impact, ‘The Power of the Group’ TVC affirms the power of collective action.

    Read Also: FCMB Group shareholders approve N340b capital raise

    This message mirrors FCMB Group’s success as a diversified holding company, where banking, consumer finance, investment management, and investment banking subsidiaries work together to serve nearly 14 million customers. These subsidiaries deliver comprehensive solutions and drive inclusive growth and sustainable development through their collective strength.

    The campaign promotes a sense of community by emphasizing the importance of collaboration and shared goals. It encourages viewers to recognize their role in a more extensive network and to contribute to the collective good. This is especially important in the Nigerian market, where community and social bonds are highly valued.

    The Power of the Group campaign will run across television, digital platforms, out-of-home media, and experiential activations throughout 2025, inviting customers, investors, and stakeholders to experience the strength and collective impact of the FCMB Group.

  • FCMB empowers local businesses

    FCMB empowers local businesses

    First City Monument Bank (FCMB) is driving entrepreneurial growth across Nigeria through its Business Empowerment Sustainability and Training (BEST) masterclass programme which traversed the Southeast, South-South, and parts of Northern Nigeria.  The programme empowers start-ups and existing entrepreneurs with essential skills and capabilities to scale and sustain their businesses for long-term success.

    Building on this momentum, FCMB will launch the next phase of the BEST masterclass programme, scheduled for March 12 to 21, 2025, in Ogun, Oyo, Kwara, Osun, and Ondo States. Start-ups and business owners will undergo comprehensive training sessions on critical aspects of business management. The masterclass, which includes interactive workshops, will be facilitated by seasoned industry experts and accomplished business leaders. It will also provide participants with networking opportunities and mentorship.

    Managing Director of FCMB,Yemisi Edun  said:  “We are building sustainable business success in Nigerian communities by closing entrepreneurial gaps. This will drive innovation, growth, competitiveness, job creation, and long-term economic health.”

    Read Also: Lagos GDP hits $259bn, becomes Africa’s second largest city economy

    Edun said investing in entrepreneurial talent is an investment in Nigeria’s future, strengthening the private sector’s capacity to drive national economic progress.

    The masterclass will cover financial literacy, digital marketing, operational optimization, sustainable business practices, and strategic planning, equipping participants with the necessary competencies to stay competitive. Participants will also engage in knowledge-sharing sessions, fostering collaboration and enabling them to navigate challenges while capitalizing on opportunities.

    Divisional Head and Senior Vice President of Business Banking at FCMB, George Ogbonnaya highlighted the bank’s dedication to empowering SMEs.

    “Our BEST masterclass is a strategic intervention, providing SMEs with the essential skills and resources to navigate and excel in a dynamic market,” he said.

  • FCMB announces business transformation masterclass

    FCMB announces business transformation masterclass

    First City Monument Bank (FCMB) has introduced the Business Empowerment and Sustainability Training (BEST) Masterclass. 

    This programme is designed to provide business owners with the necessary skills and insights to successfully navigate the complexities of the modern economic environment.

    The BEST Masterclass features a thorough curriculum that addresses essential aspects of business management, such as financial planning, digital transformation, and sustainable business practices. 

    The bank said participants will have the opportunity to engage with industry experts, gain valuable insights into effective strategies, and connect with fellow entrepreneurs.

    Benefits of Attendance:

    • The BEST Masterclass presents a unique opportunity to learn from leading industry professionals and acquire practical strategies while networking with peers.
    • Attendees will explore how integrating sustainability into their business models is not only an ethical consideration but also a strategic advantage that can enhance efficiency, attract investment, and improve brand reputation. 

    Key Learning Outcomes:

    • Sustainable Profitability: Understand how implementing eco-friendly and ethical practices can lead to cost reductions and revenue increases.
    • Financial Resilience: Acquire knowledge on effective budgeting, investment strategies, and options for accessing financing.
    • Digital Transformation: Discover how to utilize technology to streamline operations, widen market presence, and enhance customer engagement.

     It urged interested to register:www.fcmb.com/BEST/.

  • FNSB praises FCMB’s continuous support for the blind

    FNSB praises FCMB’s continuous support for the blind

    The Federal Nigeria Society for the Blind (FNSB) has commended First City Monument Bank (FCMB) for supporting the visually impaired community in Nigeria.

    Through financial donations and essential supplies, FCMB has strengthened programmes at FNSB, Pacelli School for the Blind, Bethesda Home for the Blind, and Farmcraft Centre for the Blind, making a tangible difference in the lives of those it serves.

    Arit Tunde-Imoyo, Chairman of the FNSB Executive Council, expressed profound gratitude for FCMB’s sustained partnership.

    “FCMB has been more than a supporter; it has been a true partner. Its generosity has helped sustain our mission of empowering visually impaired individuals to lead independent lives,” she said.

    Diran Olojo, Divisional Head of Corporate Affairs at FCMB, reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to fostering inclusivity. “Everyone deserves the opportunity to reach their full potential, regardless of ability. Our increased support this year reflects our dedication to empowering the visually impaired community,” he stated.

    Olojo also emphasised the need to challenge societal stereotypes about disabilities. “The visually impaired are just as capable of success as anyone else. The real barriers are not their limitations but the misconceptions and lack of support they face. At FCMB, we are committed to breaking these barriers by providing resources that enable them to pursue their ambitions and lead fulfilling lives.”

    Oluwamayowa Oke, Executive Secretary of the FNSB Vocational Training Centre, acknowledged FCMB’s consistency in supporting the centre and its students. “FCMB’s generosity ensures the welfare of our students and enhances teaching and learning,” he said.

    Read Also: FCMB empowers entrepreneurs with millionaire promo

    Hameed Kareem, an assistant teacher at Bethesda Home for the Blind, also lauded FCMB for its commitment and offered prayers for the bank’s continued success.

    FCMB’s dedication to the visually impaired community extends beyond donations. Since 2009, its Priceless Gift of Sight initiative, in partnership with the Tulsi Chanrai Foundation, has provided free eye care services to over 400,000 Nigerians. These services include eye tests, optical treatments, surgeries, and disease management—critical interventions in a country where over 4 million people are blind or visually impaired.

    With its continued investment in sustainable initiatives, FCMB offers assistance and fosters a future where visually impaired Nigerians have the opportunities and resources to thrive.

  • FNSB lauds FCMB’s support for the visually impaired

    FNSB lauds FCMB’s support for the visually impaired

    The Federal Nigeria Society for the Blind (FNSB) has commended First City Monument Bank (FCMB) for supporting the visually impaired community in Nigeria.

    According to a statement by the bank, FCMB, through financial donations and essential supplies,  has strengthened programmes at FNSB, Pacelli School for the Blind, Bethesda Home for the Blind, and Farmcraft Centre for the Blind, making a tangible difference in the lives of those it serves.

    Arit Tunde-Imoyo, Chairman of the FNSB Executive Council, expressed profound gratitude for FCMB’s sustained partnership.

    She said:” FCMB has been more than a supporter; it has been a true partner. Its generosity has helped sustain our mission of empowering visually impaired individuals to lead independent lives.”

    Diran Olojo, Divisional Head of Corporate Affairs at FCMB, reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to fostering inclusivity.

    He said: “Everyone deserves the opportunity to reach their full potential, regardless of ability. Our increased support this year reflects our dedication to empowering the visually impaired community.”

    Olojo also emphasised the need to challenge societal stereotypes about disabilities.

    He said: “The visually impaired are just as capable of success as anyone else. The real barriers are not their limitations but the misconceptions and lack of support they face. At FCMB, we are committed to breaking these barriers by providing resources that enable them to pursue their ambitions and lead fulfilling lives.”

    Oluwamayowa Oke, Executive Secretary of the FNSB Vocational Training Centre, acknowledged FCMB’s consistency in supporting the centre and its students. “FCMB’s generosity ensures the welfare of our students and enhances teaching and learning,” he said.

    Hameed Kareem, an assistant teacher at Bethesda Home for the Blind, also lauded FCMB for its commitment and offered prayers for the bank’s continued success.

    Read Also: FCMB rewards promo winners with cash prizes

    FCMB’s dedication to the visually impaired community extends beyond donations. Since 2009, its Priceless Gift of Sight initiative, in partnership with the Tulsi Chanrai Foundation, has provided free eye care services to over 400,000 Nigerians.

     These services include eye tests, optical treatments, surgeries, and disease management—critical interventions in a country where over 4 million people are blind or visually impaired.

    With its continued investment in sustainable initiatives, FCMB offers assistance and fosters a future where visually impaired Nigerians have the opportunities and resources to thrive.

  • FCMB empowers entrepreneurs with millionaire promo

    FCMB empowers entrepreneurs with millionaire promo

    Four lucky winners have emerged from the first draw in the ongoing FCMB Millionaire Promo season 10. 

    They are Issa Aliyu, a diligent farmer from Ilorin, Kwara State; Anthony Ngiah, a successful businessman from Owerri, Imo State; Aisha Muhammad, an ingenious entrepreneur from Kaduna State; and Prosper Chigbu, another thriving businessman from Lagos State. 

    In this season, 20 lucky customers will win ₦1 million each, while hundreds more will take home cash prizes ranging from ₦20,000 to ₦50,000.

    Read Also: FCMB rewards promo winners with cash prizes

    Reflecting on the impact of the promo, one of the million-naira winners, Aliyu plans to invest his winnings back into his business. “This bank doesn’t just talk about helping people; they do it. Winning this money is a real blessing, and I will use it to grow my farm,” he disclosed with excitement. “It will make a real difference.”

    Another million-naira winner, Aisha Muhammad echoed the sentiment, “I am thankful to FCMB. To me, it is the number one bank. I encourage the bank to continue improving the lives of its customers.”

    To enter the monthly and seasonal draws, increase your account balance by a minimum of ₦10,000 and maintain it for 30 days. Every additional ₦10,000 increases your chances of winning.