First Bank Nigeria 2023

First Bank of Nigeria Limited: Pioneering Excellence in Banking and Beyond

Established in 1894, First Bank of Nigeria Limited, fondly known as “FirstBank,” stands as the bedrock of the West African financial landscape. It is not only the premier bank in West Africa but also a leading financial inclusion service provider across the continent.

With a footprint extending over three continents – Africa, Europe, and Asia – FirstBank’s influence is felt globally. Its subsidiaries, including FirstBank UK Limited, operate in key international financial hubs such as London, Paris, The Democratic Republic of Congo, The Gambia, Sierra Leone, Ghana, Guinea, and Senegal. These subsidiaries are fully authorized by their respective Central Banks to offer a complete suite of banking services, both domestically and internationally.

For over 129 years, FirstBank has built a sterling reputation founded on strong relationships, robust corporate governance, and solid liquidity. It spearheaded the digital payment revolution in Nigeria, issuing over 12 million cards to customers, a milestone unmatched in Nigeria’s banking sector. FirstBank’s investment in technology and innovation is underscored by nearly 22 million active customers on digital channels, including the renowned *894# Banking code.

With a staggering 41 million customer accounts, spanning Nigeria, the UK, and sub-Saharan Africa, FirstBank provides a comprehensive range of retail and wholesale financial services. Its network comprises over 800 business offices and an astounding 200,000 agent locations, covering 772 out of the 774 Local Government Areas in Nigeria.

Beyond traditional banking, FirstBank extends its purview to include pension fund custody services through First Pension Custodian Nigeria Limited and nominee services through First Nominees Nigeria Limited.

Diversity is a cornerstone of FirstBank’s ethos, reflected in its policies, partnerships, and initiatives. Approximately 39% of its workforce is female, emphasizing a commitment to gender equality. The FirstBank Women Network strives to bridge gender gaps and elevate women’s participation at all organizational levels, in line with UN Women’s Women Empowerment Principles.

FirstBank’s accolades are numerous and illustrious, including consecutive recognitions as the “Most Valuable Bank Brand in Nigeria” and “Best Retail Bank in Nigeria” by globally esteemed institutions. In 2022, Fitch, a leading global rating agency, upgraded the bank’s Viability and Long-Term Issuer Default Ratings, attesting to its robust internal capital generation and risk management. Notably, FirstBank holds the top position in Nigeria for Overall Performance, Profitability, Efficiency, and Return on Risk according to The Banker Magazine’s Top 100 African Bank rankings.

In 2023, FirstBank continues to shine, garnering awards such as “Best Private Bank for Sustainable Investing in Africa 2023” and “African Bank of the Year,” solidifying its legacy as a pioneering force in African banking. With a vision to be “Africa’s Bank of first choice,” FirstBank remains steadfast in its mission to deliver unparalleled financial services, epitomizing the gold standard of excellence.