The Nation Newspaper

Tag: FirstBank

  • FirstBank justifies N200b loans to MSMES

    FirstBank justifies N200b loans to MSMES

    First Bank of Nigeria Limited (FirstBank) said it has identified poor funding as one of the biggest challenges facing Micro Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in the country.

    Head, SMEs Banking, First Bank of Nigeria Limited (FirstBank), Mr. Abiodun Famuyiwa said it was the need to bridge the funding gap for MSMEs and support growth in the sector that prompted the bank to lend over N200 billion to the sub-sector in 2024.

    Speaking at the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) 2025 National MSMES Conference held in Lagos, he said:  “Yes, one of the major problems MSMEs are confronted with, as we all know, is funding.

    We can’t shy away from it because they need money to be able to run their operations.  And in this area, FirstBank has come handy”.

    The conference with “Grow Nigeria: Building a Future of Innovation, Resilience , and Prosperity” as theme also focused on businesses, finance, technology and the creative economy.

    Read Also: Capital market turnover hits N10tr

    Continuing, Famuyiwa said: “I can tell you confidently that last year, we disbursed  about N100 billion to businesses in across diverse markets alone. Petty traders also got about N70 billion, not to talk of businesses in other areas. Overall, FirstBank disbursed over 200 billion to small businesses in one year.

    Describing the feat as remarkable, he said: “So, we are wholeheartedly supporting them, and this funds are majorly given to them without any collateral at all. We just look at the way they do their businesses and determine what they can actually afford”.

    He further said that part of what the bank does is to look at the risk criteria of each SME to avoid lending beyond capacity.

     “We do not want to give SMEs money that will put them into trouble. So, we try to assess their businesses and also ensure that we monitor the usage of that fund,” he said.

    Famuyiwa said FirstBank has been directly involved in ensuring that SMEs businesses move to the next level.

     “We’ve organized different webinars, seminars for SMEs on how they can scale their businesses because growing businesses is not just about money alone. When the money is given to you, what do you do with it? How do you use that money effectively to be able to expand your business?”

    He said the bank’s SME Connect, remains an avenue for SMEs to meet, exchange ideas and learn from the experts.

     “We also enable them to meet with mentors who have been in those businesses for them to share their experiences, ask questions. They can express their pains, and such mentors will be able to respond to them effectively,” he said.

     “For instance, now we have POs that we give out to SMEs to be able to ensure that they can be able to do their businesses seamlessly. We also have SME liability accounts, which enables them run their businesses without any extra charge at all. So these are some of the additional efforts the bank actually used to be able to support the SME businesses,” he said.

    “Discussions during the conference further focused on policy dialogue that will support the review of National MSME Policy, which expired this year, and guide the development of a new five year policy framework. This session brings together federal, state, private sector leaders, financiers, development partners and MSME associations.

    The GROW Nigerian Fair ran as a large-scale exhibition showcasing some of Nigeria’s most promising SMEs across food, fashion, manufacturing, technology, entertainment and other sectors.

  • FirstBank stakes N34.5m Pro/Am prizein 64th Lagos Amateur Open Golf

    FirstBank stakes N34.5m Pro/Am prizein 64th Lagos Amateur Open Golf

    Nigeria’s biggest golf sponsor, FirstBank of Nigeria Limited, has raised the ante in golf promotion, staking a whopping N34.5m cash and other prizes in the 64th edition of the annual Lagos Amateur Open Golf Championship.

    Chief Executive Officer of FirstBank Group, Olusegun Alebiosu, represented by Ayokunle Ojo, Head, Treasury Sales and Derivatives Marketing, of FirstBank Group, said the increased prize money for professional golfers is aimed at elevating the championship and enhancing the development of Professional golfers in the region.

    “We have raised the Pro-Am monies from N5million to N34.5m with the first prize winner taking home N10m for a single day play, the biggest reward for the game of golf in Nigeria, thereby elevating the championship and enhancing the development of professional golf within the region,” he said 

    Read Also: FirstBank affirms legacy with Georgian Cup after 104 years of sponsorship

    While pledging the bank’s commitment to continue to promote the sport, Ojo said the objective remains not only to use the platform for competition but also a celebration of character, competence, and community.

    Acting Group Head, Marketing and Corporate Communications, Olayinka Ijabiyi, also described the championship as a story of rededication, a tradition that inspires and a game that mirrors life in its demand for

  • FirstBank vindicated: Arbitration tribunal dismisses GHL’s $718m claim

    FirstBank vindicated: Arbitration tribunal dismisses GHL’s $718m claim

    …The tribunal’s order for GHL to pay FirstBank’s arbitration costs within 30 days underscores the bank’s
    strong position in the dispute and paves the way for further action to recover $230 million owed to the bank.

    The Final Award in the arbitration initiated by General Hydrocarbons Limited against First Bank of Nigeria Limited, issued by Sole Arbitrator Hon. Justice Kumai Bayang Akaahs, was published today the 28th, October 2025,

    General Hydrocarbons Limited (GHL) was represented by Messrs. Paul Usoro SAN & and Abiodun Layonu SAN. First Bank of Nigeria Limited (FBN) was also represented by Messrs Gbolahan. Elias, SAN; Babajide Koku, SAN and Victor Ogude, SAN.

    The Tribunal dismissed GHL’s case in its entirety, affirming FBN’s financing obligations as conditional, finding no breach or entitlement to damages by GHL, and ordering GHL to bear the costs of arbitration.

    The dispute arose from the Subrogation Agreement dated May 29, 2021, under which GHL undertook the repayment of an outstanding debt of $718 million and FBN undertook to provide additional loans to finance the development and production of OML 120 in line with the provisions of the Subrogation Agreement.

    GHL alleged that FBN breached the agreement by failing to provide absolute and timely financing, sabotaging alternative funding efforts, and causing losses including liabilities to third party and leading to loss of productive time in the development of OML 120.

    FBN argued its financing obligation was conditional and not absolute but subject to review and professional discretion in line with banking policies and regulatory guidelines.

    Read Also: Nigeria vs. Benin: Madugu  dreams  2027 World Cup  with  Super Falcons

    The key Findings of the Tribunal are as follows:

    1. FBN has a conditional, not absolute, obligation to finance OML 120 development. It must review and evaluate financing requests and may attach competitive terms as deemed suitable.

    2. GHL failed to prove any breach by FBN. FBN made several financing offers totaling $185 million, and delays alleged by GHL were not found unreasonable or in breach.

    3. Introduction of an Independent Asset Manager as a financing condition by FBN was consistent with the agreement and not a breach.

    4. Allegations of FBN sabotaging alternative financing arrangements were unsubstantiated and dismissed for being devoid of any merit.

    5. All reliefs sought by GHL, including declarations, damages for unpaid contractor fees, losses, and termination of the Subrogation Agreement, were refused.

    6. FBN was adjudged entitled to recover reasonable legal and arbitration costs from GHL, amounting to $112,100 and N111,250,000, payable within 30 days with interest on late payment.

  • FirstBank integrates PAPSS into its LIT app

    FirstBank integrates PAPSS into its LIT app

    FirstBank has successfully integrated the Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS) into its flagship digital banking platform, the LIT app, enabling customers to make instant, secure, and local currency-based cross-border payments across Africa.

    PAPSS, developed by the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) in collaboration with the African Union and the AfCFTA Secretariat, enables instant, low-cost payments in local currencies between African countries.

    Speaking on the integration, the Group Executive, e-Business and Retail Products at FirstBank, Chuma Ezirim, said, “The integration of PAPSS into the LIT app is a testament to FirstBank’s commitment to delivering innovative, customer-centric solutions that simplify and enhance financial transactions. This milestone aligns with the Bank’s strategic goal of deepening digital capabilities and expanding access to seamless cross-border payment services across Africa.”

    Mike Ogbalu, CEO of PAPSS said, “Every time an individual, an SME or a Company sends money instantly within Africa in their own currency, we are not just moving funds, we are connecting ambitions, supporting livelihoods, and bridging dreams across borders.

    Read Also: FirstBank floors Nduka Obaigbena’s GHL at Court of Appeal

    This collaboration with FirstBank and their LIT app brings us a step closer to making African borders invisible to movement of money, so that the continent’s entrepreneurs and families can focus on what matters most: building their future, not battling payment barriers.”

    The LIT App, FirstBank’s innovative digital banking platform, offers a wide range of features including virtual cards, scheduled payments, and multiple transfers in one go, designed to meet the dynamic needs of customers. The addition of PAPSS expands its capabilities to support cross-border commerce, especially for individuals and SMEs engaged in pan-African business.

    With PAPSS now live on the LIT App, FirstBank is breaking down barriers to payments, trade and financial inclusion across Africa. Customers can now send funds conveniently to other countries in Naira, without needing US dollar, GBP or Euro conversions. This landmark integration enables real-time cross-border payments in local African currencies, reduces transaction costs, and improves settlement efficiency. It also expands access to digital banking services, promotes financial inclusion, supports SMEs and fosters growth under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

    This integration of PAPSS to the LIT app reinforces FirstBank’s leadership in digital banking innovation and supports the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) agenda by simplifying intra-African transactions.

  • First Bank urges action to expand financial access, boost innovation

    First Bank urges action to expand financial access, boost innovation

    The Managing Director of FirstBank Group, Olusegun Alebiosu, says the bank is committed to bridging financing gaps and leveraging digital solutions to tackle business challenges across key sectors of the economy.

    Alebiosu stated this at a breakfast session during the 31st Nigeria Economic Summit, themed “Expanding Access to Finance and Driving Growth Across Middle Market and Emerging Corporate Segments,” held in Abuja on Tuesday.

    He said that a prosperous nation is built on the backbone of its real sector, adding that access to finance remains fundamental to unlocking the sector’s full potential.

    “That is why we have placed this subject at the heart of our discussion — to catalyse sustainable growth and inclusion where it matters most,” he said.

    According to him, FirstBank empowers Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and emerging corporates through tailored products and services designed to stimulate growth across their value chains and support Nigeria’s economic evolution.

    He stressed that collaboration among policymakers, industry players, and technology partners was vital to achieving lasting impact.

    “By forging partnerships across policy, industry, and technology, we can create an enabling environment that unlocks new opportunities for businesses to thrive. That is the driving purpose of today’s session,” Alebiosu said.

    He highlighted that with a legacy spanning 131 years, FirstBank remains a trusted partner to SMEs and large corporates, offering comprehensive banking solutions that enhance innovation, resilience, and diversification in the economy.

    Read Also: Nigerians expect more deliberate action from lawmakers, says Speaker Abbas

    Also speaking, the Group Executive, Commercial Banking, North Division, Mrs. Aishatu Bubaram, said the middle market and emerging corporates are central to Nigeria’s future prosperity.

    She described these enterprises as vibrant drivers of job creation, innovation, and diversification across key sectors such as agribusiness, healthcare, digital services, and light manufacturing.

    Bubaram noted that despite their potential, these businesses face persistent challenges, including limited access to finance, inadequate advisory support, and fragile operational ecosystems.

    “FirstBank recognises that addressing these barriers is not just a banking imperative; it is a national imperative,” she said.

    According to her, the bank has continued to support enterprise growth and resilience over its 131-year history, reaffirming its commitment to expanding access to financial solutions, deploying technology to unlock opportunities, and forging partnerships that empower businesses.

    “This session is not merely about banking; it is about reimagining how finance can accelerate inclusion, how policy can create enabling environments, and how collective action can turn Nigeria’s vast entrepreneurial energy into shared prosperity,” Bubaram added.

  • FirstBank, Lagos partners for E1 Lagos GP

    FirstBank, Lagos partners for E1 Lagos GP

    In line with its commitments of promoting sports and developmental initiatives at all levels, First Bank of Nigeria Limited is partnering the organizers of the first of its kind E1 Lagos GP an all-electric powerboat racing championship, set to hold between October 3 and 5, 2025.

    Disclosing this at the E1 Lagos GP Stakeholder Immersion session in Lagos recently, Olayinka Ijabiyi, the Acting Group Head, Marketing and Corporate Communication of FirstBank, reaffirmed the Bank’s commitment to supporting initiatives that engender human development across the country while cementing legacies.

    Read Also: Aiyegbeni, Oshaniwa berate NFF for blaming  Ekong, Dessers for Super Eagles’ woes 

    “Our involvement in the E1 Lagos GP is about driving legacy and enabling the passions and aspirations that unite Nigerians. We are a bank that has been in business for over 131 years and we recognize that sports drives us as a country, which is why through our First@Sports initiative, we continue to invest in platforms that inspire and elevate our people. We have been supporting legacy sport tournaments like the Georgian Polo Cup which we have hosted for 105 years, and the Lagos Amateur Open Golf Championship for 64 years now,” Ijabiyi said.

    With the event slated for the start of the fourth quarter, FirstBank is aligning its partnership with the annual DecemberIssaVybe initiative, a campaign that celebrates the vibrant spirit of Nigerians during the festive season by curating unforgettable experiences that blend culture, entertainment and lifestyle. 

  • Minister to speak on food security at FirstBank’s agric export conference

    Minister to speak on food security at FirstBank’s agric export conference

    The Minister of Agriculture & Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari will provide insights on how the Federal Government is driving   the growth of non-oil  through the agricultural sector.

    Nigeria’s non-oil exports reached a total value of $3.225 billion in the first half of  the year  marking a 19.59 per cent  increase compared to the $2.696 billion recorded during the same period last year, according to the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC).

    The platform will be  FirstBank Agric and Export Conference themed “The Fundamentals of Building a Non-Oil Export Driven Economy. It   will take place   today, at the Eko Convention Centre.

    He will highlighted current efforts to  enhance the competitiveness of  Nigeria’s agro commodities , including  valuable opportunities for  farmers and produce businesses to rival and potentially surpass other exporters across the continent.

    Other expected guest speakers include the Managing Director,  Bank of Agriculture (BOA), Mr. Jafar Abubakar Umar;  ManagingDirector/Chief Executive, Nigerian Export-Import Bank (NEXIM), Mr. Abba Bello; National Action Committee on AfCFTA, Mr. Segun Awolowo;  President, All Farmers Association of Nigeria, Architect Kabir Ibrahim, Chief Executive,  Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC), Mrs. Nonye Ayeni and a host of others. The speakers will contribute their expertise and perspectives throughout the various sessions, ensuring participants gain valuable knowledge to enhance their roles within the agricultural and export value chain

    The event will feature a keynote speech, goodwill messages, plenary discussions, where select speakers will expound on the theme and technical sessions to be handled by subject matter specialists in the agriculture and export value chain.

    Read Also: Heirs Energies strengthens Africa’s Energy Voice, says Igiehon

    Speaking on the conference, Managing Director, FirstBank Group, Olusegun Alebiosu,  stated, “The FirstBank Agric and Export Conference is a strategic platform for stakeholders to converge, share knowledge, and drive strategies that can unlock the full potential of Nigeria’s agricultural sector and non-oil export industry. Through this platform, FirstBank is empowering customers and stakeholders by providing them with actionable insights, innovative solutions, and valuable connections that can help them navigate the complexities of the agricultural and nonoil export sectors. In addition, we aim to deliver tangible benefits to our customers, enhance their business prospects, and create lasting value for our stakeholders, while contributing to the growth and development of Nigeria’s economy.”

    The FirstBank Agric and Export Conference aims to keep Nigerians abreast of emerging trends in the agricultural and non- oil export sector, whilst providing them insights into how innovative solutions can contribute to the overall development of the economy, and the nation at large. The conference will adopt a hybrid format, allowing most participants to join virtually while principal stakeholders attend in person. Attendees will have the opportunity to explore exhibition booths featuring major organizations and associations from industry.

    To participate in the FirstBank Agric and Export Conference, interested participants can click on https://firstbanknigeria.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_Lit8tD6KSm6kzLMcyHwo8Q to register.

    The FirstBank Agric and Export Conference is one of the Bank’s key initiatives to promote collaboration and innovation within the agricultural and non- oil export sectors. By providing a strategic platform for stakeholders, the conference aims to enhance the competitiveness of customers and partners in the global market. With agriculture identified as the most viable alternative to oil for generating foreign exchange earnings, this initiative supports economic diversification and is poised to accelerate national growth and development.

  • FirstBank champions inclusive fintech innovation at Canada-Africa summit

    FirstBank champions inclusive fintech innovation at Canada-Africa summit

    FirstBank proudly sponsored the recently held Canada-Africa Fintech Summit (CAFS 2025), which ended at the weekend at the Sheraton Centre in Downtown Toronto.

    Convened by Dr. Segun Aina, President of the African Fintech Network, CAFS 2025 was a landmark event that united fintech leaders, regulators, startups, and investors from Africa and Canada to explore scalable digital solutions, encourage investment, and promote inclusive economic development across both continents.

    As a legacy institution with over 131 years of leadership in financial services, FirstBank’s sponsorship highlights its commitment to fostering cross-border collaboration, financial inclusion, and forward-thinking innovation in the global fintech landscape. Olayinka Ijabiyi, Ag. Group Head, Marketing and Corporate Communications at FirstBank, stated, “Our support of CAFS 2025 reflects our belief that collaboration between African and Canadian fintech ecosystems can lead to transformative innovations. FirstBank is proud to help shape that future.”

    Read Also: FirstBank retains ‘Best Bank for ESG’ at Euromoney Awards

    During a high-level panel discussion with Rudy Cuzzeto, MPP for Mississauga–Lakeshore, and David Stevenson, Country Director for the United Nations World Food Programme (Nigeria), Chuma Ezirim, Group Executive for E-Business & Retail Products at FirstBank, stressed the significance of digital collaboration in Africa’s financial ecosystem. “We’re building APIs that understand regulatory bifurcation, who has access to what, and why. The technology is the easy part.”

    The real challenge lies in maintaining security, consent, and performance,” he explained. “In Nigeria, fintech has evolved beyond disruption to convergence, integrating banks, fintechs, and regulators into an agile and accountable ecosystem.” He further emphasized that regulatory clarity is essential for building public trust and attracting private investment in fintech, stating, “The more we collaborate, the more lessons we learn, and the greater the benefits for consumers.”

    In a separate panel discussion, Rachel Adeshina, Chief Technology Officer at FirstBank, shared insights on harnessing AI to enhance credit access for the underbanked. “We’re addressing data poverty by using AI to interpret alternative data, allowing us to lend to individuals who might otherwise be invisible to the traditional credit system,” she noted. Adeshina highlighted that FirstBank has disbursed over ₦1 trillion in digital loans through this AI-driven model, achieving a remarkable repayment rate of over 99%. “This innovation was enabled not only by technology but also by a supportive environment, including API banking regulations, data privacy laws, and a shift from account-based to wallet-based banking,” she added. She also underscored the importance of scalability through collaboration, stating, “In a fragmented continent like Africa, digital scale will come from interoperability. Connecting the 54 markets is the next big challenge, and fintechs are ideally positioned to lead that initiative.”

    The summit formed part of Canada’s broader Africa Strategy, aimed at fostering economic partnerships, digital cooperation, and innovation exchange. As Africa’s digital finance ecosystem continues to grow and Canada develops its own open banking framework, events like CAFS 2025 provide a timely platform to align strategies and ignite collaborations.

  • NiDCOM, Sydani Group, FirstBank launch platform to empower Nigerian Diaspora

    NiDCOM, Sydani Group, FirstBank launch platform to empower Nigerian Diaspora

    In a historic partnership for development, Sydani Group, in collaboration with the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) and FirstBank Plc, have launched the Home and Abroad Platform, a secure and tech-enabled solution designed to help Nigerians in the diaspora own verified real estate properties in Nigeria with ease.

    The launch took place at the Presidential Villa on Friday July 25, 2025, first day of the National Diaspora Day and National Diaspora Merit Awards.

    The event, with the theme, “Optimising Formidable Diaspora Potentials for National Development and Growth”, was attended by stakeholders from different backgrounds, including top government functionaries, captains of industries from both the private and private sectors, members of the diplomatic corps, and the diaspora community.

    The Home and Abroad Platform aims to address longstanding issues faced by Nigerians abroad, particularly the risk of fraud when attempting to purchase property back home.

    It provides access to verified real estate options and a secure payment system through FirstBank, giving prospective homeowners the confidence and peace of mind they need to invest in Nigeria from anywhere in the world.

    Sydani Group led the development, design, and implementation of the platform, bringing together technical innovation, financial security, and a user-centric approach.

    The Sydani Group delegation at the event was led by its Group Managing Partner, Sidney Sampson, alongside Home and Abroad Managers Christopher Epum, Abdulganiyy Ajayi, Adedayo Odupitan, Owhorchukwu Onuegbu and others.

    Christopher Epum, one of the platform’s managers, described the vision behind Home and Abroad:“Home and Abroad offers every Nigerian in the Diaspora an opportunity to own verified properties back at home.

    “The Platform brings housing solutions to Diasporas that come with a sense of peace of mind as prospective homeowners can purchase houses seamlessly and make payments through a secure payment channel.

    Read Also: Nigeria, others rally for united global action on food security

    He added that, “Home and Abroad is set to alter the property purchase process in Nigeria as the platform has adopted innovative features to check the distance barrier and offer prospective buyers a full view of the property in Nigeria from wherever they are in the world.”

    Also speaking at the event, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman/CEO of NiDCOM, underscored the importance of optimizing diaspora contributions to national development.

    She noted that the platform would help address a key challenge facing Nigerians abroad: the lack of trustworthy channels to invest in property back home.

    Representing FirstBank Group CEO, Mr. Olusegun Alebiosu, Ms. Abimbola Meshinoye, Head of Brand Strategy and Financial Planning, affirmed that the initiative aligns with FirstBank’s commitment to enabling financial inclusion and supporting diaspora engagement.

    She acknowledged the vital role of the Nigerian diaspora in the country’s socio-economic growth, particularly through annual remittances exceeding $20 billion.

    The platform’s development reflects a broader vision shared by NiDCOM, Sydani Group and First Bank to channel diaspora remittances, trust, and potential into sustainable national development.

    With Nigeria’s diaspora population exceeding 70 million and contributing over $20 billion annually in remittances, the Home and Abroad platform is positioned to become a transformative tool in bridging investment opportunities between Nigeria and its global citizens.

    Sydani Group is a leading development consultancy committed to delivering innovative, data-driven, and scalable solutions across the public and private sectors.

    From policy design to program implementation, Sydani partners with governments, international organisations, and corporate institutions to drive systemic change and inclusive development across Africa.

  • FirstBank retains ‘Best Bank for ESG’ at Euromoney Awards

    FirstBank retains ‘Best Bank for ESG’ at Euromoney Awards

    FirstBank again emerged Nigeria’s Best Bank for Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) at the Euromoney Awards for Excellence 2025 in London.

    This marked FirstBank’s second consecutive win in the ESG category, affirming its leadership in sustainable finance and responsible banking across Nigeria.

    The Euromoney Awards for Excellence are regarded as one of the most coveted accolades in the global financial industry. The highly competitive selection process involves rigorous analysis and assessment, measuring performance against strategic and impact-oriented criteria.

    Chief Risk Officer and Chairman of FirstBank Sustainability Committee, Patrick Akhidenor said the bank earned the award through its deepened sustainability commitments embedded across its operations and community initiatives. In 2024, FirstBank screened 237 transactions worth over N3 trillion for sustainability risks, integrating ESG considerations into its credit framework.

    He noted that among its flagship sustainability initiatives, FirstBank commenced a tree planting campaign in partnership with Nigeria Conservation Foundation (NCF), planting over 30,000 trees in 16 locations across Nigeria. This was the first phase of its 50,000-tree initiative, projected to absorb approximately 720 tonnes of CO₂ by the end of 2025, contributing to climate resilience and supporting biodiversity preservation.

    According to him, FirstBank has been proactive in gender inclusion through the Gender Market Strategy, disbursing over N43 billion FirstGem loans to women-led businesses in 2024. The bank’s commitment to inclusive banking saw a significant increase in the worth of transactions facilitated by FirstMonie agents to over N9 trillion.

    Read Also: How to end Nigeria’s housing crisis, by developer

    He outlined that the bank prioritises ESG and sustainability capacity building, evidenced by the training of over 9000 employees, and its webinars and workshops reaching over 2,000 SMEs and corporates.

    He pointed out that the bank’s investment in leadership for over 2,000 female employees through the FirstBank Women Network has demonstrated a dedicated structural commitment to cultivating a knowledgeable and diverse workforce catering to the dynamic ESG landscape.

    He said: “We are honoured to receive this prestigious award for the second time in a row, which is a validation of our efforts to create a sustainable and inclusive future for all our stakeholders. Our approach to sustainability is hinged on three pillars: education, health and welfare; diversity and financial inclusion; responsible lending, procurement and climate initiatives.

    “We remain focused on driving impact through purposeful initiatives and inclusive growth, ensuring that our ESG efforts continue to create meaningful change in communities across Nigeria and beyond”.

    He emphasised that continued success in ESG and sustainability is driven by FirstBank’s vision to be Africa’s bank of first choice, leading with purpose, responsibility, and innovation.