Skip to main content

FirstBank's new head office reaffirms its dedication to economic growth and innovation.


 First Bank of Nigeria, the country's oldest financial institution, has started a bold project to build a state-of-the-art head office in Eko Atlantic City. Industry stakeholders have praised the project, which experts say will solidify the bank's leadership in Nigeria's financial sector and reaffirm its dedication to innovation, sustainability, and economic growth.

Groundbreaking Ceremony

At the groundbreaking event attended by top government officials and industry leaders, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu officially presented the certificate of approval. This paves the way for immediate construction of what will become Nigeria’s tallest building—a 44-storey, eco-friendly edifice reflecting FirstBank’s long-term vision.

A Legacy of Firsts

Founded in 1894, FirstBank has been a pillar of Nigeria’s financial system for over 130 years. As a systemically important bank, it has pioneered key innovations that have shaped modern banking in Nigeria.

It was the first Nigerian bank listed on the Nigerian Stock Exchange, the first to introduce international money transfer services in partnership with Western Union. FirstBank also launched Nigeria’s first ATM in 1991 and later introduced biometric and cash deposit ATMs, showcasing its commitment to technology. This tradition continues with the new corporate headquarters in Eko Atlantic City, setting new industry benchmarks.

FirstBank’s pioneering milestones include being the first financial institution in West Africa, the first Nigerian company recognised as the Most Valuable Banking Brand for six consecutive years, and the first to surpass 200,000 agent banking locations. It was also the first Nigerian bank to reach a market capitalisation of one trillion naira and execute the country’s largest public offer.

Beyond finance, FirstBank has led technological and global expansion initiatives, establishing the first Nigerian offshore subsidiary (FirstBank UK Ltd) and offering global custody services. It was also the first Nigerian bank to use FinnOne credit administration software. Its commitment to sustainability is reflected in its partnership with Lagos Business School to establish the FirstBank Sustainability Centre, recognised by the United Nations Global Compact LEAD.

Eko Atlantic City: A Symbol of Nigeria’s Future

Eko Atlantic City is emerging as West Africa’s financial and commercial hub, built on reclaimed land along the Lagos coastline. FirstBank’s decision to establish its headquarters here highlights its strategic vision for Nigeria’s economic transformation.

Governor Sanwo-Olu, at the groundbreaking event, praised the bank’s leadership, stating, “To signify our commitment, we present the official certificate of approval to FirstBank, allowing immediate construction. Let this be another landmark achievement for Lagos and Nigeria.”

He emphasised that Eko Atlantic City is more than a real estate development—it is an economic hub attracting global businesses. FirstBank’s presence is expected to encourage other financial institutions to follow, strengthening Nigeria’s financial sector.

A New Era for FirstBank

The new headquarters is not just an architectural feat but a statement of resilience, progress, and sustainability. Designed to meet high environmental, social, and governance (ESG) standards, the green-certified building will incorporate advanced energy efficiency measures and set a precedent for sustainable banking infrastructure in Africa.

The Group CEO of FirstBank, Olusegun Alebiosu, stated, “This project represents a new chapter in our journey. It symbolises our strength, stability, and commitment to Nigeria’s economic growth. We are not just constructing a building but investing in the future of banking, innovation, and sustainability.”

Also, the chairman, FirstHoldco (the parent of FirstBank), Femi Otedola described the groundbreaking as the dawn of a new era, reinforcing FirstBank’s leadership in financial services.

Innovation Driving Growth

FirstBank’s ability to adapt and innovate has ensured its continued growth. Over the past decade, it has maintained its position as one of Nigeria’s top banks in assets, capital, and customer base.

Despite economic uncertainties, FirstBank has demonstrated resilience. In the nine months period of 2024, its holding company posted record profit growth of 128 per cent year-on-year. Interest income surged by 178.6 per cent to N685.315 billion, reflecting strong core banking performance.

Total assets have nearly tripled in five years, reaching N16.94 trillion in 2023 and N27.49 trillion in the nine months period of 2024, while customer loans increased N9.366 trillion, supporting key sectors such as manufacturing, agriculture, oil and gas, construction, and real estate.

With its new 10-year strategic vision, which took effect in 2025, FirstBank is leveraging technology, improving customer experience, and expanding financial intermediation. It aims to double its market dominance across all operating regions, with a renewed focus on digital transformation and AI-driven banking solutions.

A Catalyst for Economic Development

The construction of FirstBank’s new headquarters is expected to generate thousands of direct and indirect jobs, boost investment in Lagos’ real estate sector, and reinforce Nigeria’s status as a financial hub.

Governor Sanwo-Olu noted, “There is ample opportunity here in Eko Atlantic, and we will continue to support investment and development.”

Vice President Kashim Shettima lauded FirstBank’s role in national development, describing the project as a testament to Nigeria’s private sector resilience.

“FirstBank has been a pillar of economic growth, empowering businesses, supporting families, and fostering prosperity. This headquarters symbolises Nigeria’s progress and economic strength.”

With construction set to commence immediately, the new head office will become an iconic landmark in Lagos. FirstBank’s investment in Eko Atlantic City reflects its confidence in Nigeria’s future and commitment to innovation, sustainability, and economic growth.

As FirstBank continues to evolve, its legacy of firsts remains intact. From pioneering modern banking in Nigeria to setting new standards in financial services, the bank is not just building a structure—it is shaping the future of banking in Nigeria and beyond.

Labels:

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

2026 World Cup Qualifier: Super Eagles Defeat Rwanda

 Nigeria’s Super Eagles secured a crucial victory over Rwanda in their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier, defeating the Amavubi 2-0 in Kigali on Friday night. A firs half brace from Victor Osimhen sealed the win for Nigeria, strengthening their position in Group C of the African qualifiers. Osimhen opened the scoring in the 11th minute with a powerful shot from an Ademola Lookman free kick,silencing the home crowd. Osimhen doubled the lead just before the end of the first half capitalizing on a defensive error to slot the ball past the Rwandan goalkeeper. Despite Rwanda’s spirited performance, the Nigerian defence held firm to secure a clean sheet. Nigeria’s next qualifier will be against Zimbawe on Monday 24th March at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo.
Post a Comment
Read All»

Messi's Bodyguard Banned From Touchline During Inter Miami Games

 Lionel Messi’s bodyguard Yassine Cheuko has been banned from protecting the Argentine forward in the touchline during Inter Miami matches. The former Navy SEAL gained widespread recognition after social media videos showed him closely watching the crowd to stop potential pitch invaders from harming the eight-times Ballon d’Or winner. Major League Soccer has now decided to take full control of matchday security and Cheuko will only be permitted in the locker room and mixed zones. “They don’t allow me to be on the field anymore,” the bodyguard told Spanish media. “I was in Europe for seven years, working for Ligue 1 and the Champions League, and only six people invaded the pitch. I came to the USA and in just 20 months 16 people have already done so. There’s a huge problem here, let me help Messi.”
Post a Comment
Read All»

Barca never had financial room to register Olmo -La Liga

 La Liga said Wednesday Barcelona did not have the financial capacity to register players Dani Olmo and Pau Victor and still lack it, ahead of a decision by Spain’s sports council (CSD) over the duo’s eligibility to play. In January Barcelona announced a deal had been reached to sell VIP boxes at the club’s Camp Nou stadium, currently being rebuilt, worth a reported 100 million euros ($108 million), which gave them the financial fair play room for new licences for the players. La Liga said Barcelona used an unnamed auditor between December 31 and January 3 which recorded the deal on the club’s books, but their current auditor no longer includes it in the club’s interim financial statements for the first part of the 2024-25 season. “No amount from the (VIP box deal) is ultimately recorded in the profit and loss accounts, contrary to what had been certified by the club and the auditor at the time of said transaction,” said La Liga in a statement. La Liga said they were reporting the ...
Post a Comment
Read All»

How to acquire the BVN number?

To obtain your Bank Verification Number (BVN), you can either visit a bank branch to enroll or check your BVN using the USSD code 5650# on the phone number registered for your BVN.  Here's a breakdown of the methods: 1. Enrolling for a BVN: Visit a Bank Branch: Go to any branch of the bank where you have an account, fill out the BVN enrollment form, and present yourself for data capturing (fingerprint, facial image, etc.).  Required Documents: You'll need a valid means of identification (e.g., International Passport, Driver's License, Voter's Card, National ID Card) and a recent passport photograph.  Enrolment Fee: There may be an enrolment fee, so ensure you have evidence of payment or the fee itself.  Acknowledgement Slip: After submitting your application, you'll receive an acknowledgment slip with a transaction ID.  BVN Generation: Within 24 hours, the system confirms your application, generates your BVN, and you'll receive an SMS for pickup.  Diaspora ...
Post a Comment
Read All»

Kylian Mbappe suspension: Will the Real Madrid attacker play against Arsenal and in the Copa del Rey final following his red card?

  Kylian Mbappe was sent off for the first time in his Real Madrid career as the reigning  LaLiga  champions held on to win 1-0 at Alaves on April 13. Madrid’s busy run-in includes a Champions League quarter-final second leg at home to Arsenal and the Copa del Rey final against Barcelona, as well as their attempt to retain the Spanish title. Carlo Ancelotti’s side were four points behind Barca with seven league games remaining for each team, helped by 22 goals and three assists by Mbappe in their first 29 top-flight matches of the season. How long is Mbappe’s suspension and which games is the Real Madrid top scorer set to miss? Here’s the latest on his punishment.The good news for Madrid is that Mbappe will be available to face Arsenal on Wednesday (20:00 BST) because his suspension will only apply domestically. Only four players still involved in the competition had outscored Mbappe’s total of seven goals before the second legs of the quarter-finals. Madrid vs Barcelona:...
Post a Comment
Read All»

CAS Acknowledges Operatives' Commitment to National Security

 The Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hassan Bala-Abubakar, has praised the Air Component of Operation FANSAN YAMMA for its commitment to national security. Bala-Abubakar made the commendation in Katsina yesterday during the 2025 Sallah luncheon with the personnel of the 213 Forward Operating Base and Air Component, Operation FANSAN YAMMA. He was represented by the Air Officer Commanding Special Operations Command, Usman Abdullahi. He stated, “I wish to commend you, our gallant officers, airmen, and airwomen of the Air Component, for your unwavering commitment, not just to the mission, but to one another and to the security of our great nation.” Bala-Abubakar assured the personnel that their welfare remained a top priority.
Post a Comment
Read All»

A former striker for Arsenal was given a four-year prison sentence.

👇 More Photos And New Video's 👇 🔥 https://spoo.me/Wibk11 An ex-Arsenal academy footballer has been jailed for four years for his involvement in a £600,000 drug smuggling plot after a court heard his financial difficulties after a period out of contract led to a “catastrophic error of judgment”. Jay Emmanuel-Thomas was arrested after officers from the National Crime Agency seized an estimated £600,000 of cannabis as it was being brought through Stansted Airport by two women he had recruited – his girlfriend and her friend. An earlier hearing at Chelmsford Crown Court in Essex was told the women believed they were importing gold. But Border Force officers detected roughly 60kg (132lb) of the drug in two suitcases, which had arrived in the UK from Bangkok, Thailand, via Dubai. The 34-year-old striker, of Cardwell Road in Gourock, Inverclyde, was arrested in the town in September 2024. He pleaded guilty at an earlier hearing to fraudulent evasion of the prohibition on the importatio...
Post a Comment
Read All»

Amidst r@pe allegations, Thomas Partey, an ex-Arsenal midfielder, joins Villarreal.

 Former Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey has joined La Liga club Villarreal following his release from Arsenal. The 32-year-old, who signed for Arsenal in a £45m deal from Atletico Madrid in 2020, left the Gunners when his contract expired at the end of June. Four days later, Partey was charged with five counts of rape against two women and a charge of s£xual assult against a third woman. Partey, who denies the charges, was granted conditional bail on Tuesday at Westminster Magistrates' Court. Under the conditions of the bail, Partey must not contact any of the three women and must notify police of any permanent changes of address or international travel. In a statement, Villarreal said: "The club is aware that the player is currently involved in legal proceedings in England. "The player firmly maintains his innocence and denies all charges against him. "The club respects the fundamental principle of the presumption of innocence and will await the outcome of the judi...
Post a Comment
Read All»

Does Jordan Henderson have anything to offer England other than 'card tricks and quizzes'? Inside Thomas Tuchel's controversial recall of the much-maligned Ajax midfielder

  The decision to bring the ex-Liverpool captain back into the Three Lions fold has taken everyone by surprise, but maybe there's method to the madness Four years have passed since Roy Keane questioned Jordan Henderson's presence in the England squad for Euro 2020. "I've heard people say they want him around the place - but for what?" the Irishman asked on ITV. "Does he do card tricks? Does he have a sing-song? Does he do quizzes in the evenings?" Does Jordan Henderson have anything to offer England other than 'card tricks and quizzes'? Inside Thomas Tuchel's controversial recall of the much-maligned Ajax midfielder Analysis England England vs Albania World Cup Qualification UEFA The decision to bring the ex-Liverpool captain back into the Three Lions fold has taken everyone by surprise, but maybe there's method to the madness Four years have passed since Roy Keane questioned Jordan Henderson's presence in the England squad for Euro 2...
Post a Comment
Read All»

In Nigeria, a "bandit" gang attack claimed at least nine lives and kidnapped numerous others.

 The country bid farewell to Buhari with military honours and honorific chants of ‘Sai Baba’. Former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari salutes during an inspection of guards on parade to mark Democracy Day in Abuja, on June 12, 2019 [File: Pius Utomi Ekpei/AFP] Nigeria’s former President Muhammadu Buhari was buried in the backyard of his home in Daura, a town in the northern Katsina state, as supporters climbed trees and shouted “Sai Baba” to bid farewell to the 82-year-old. A military parade and 21-gun salute honoured the former president on Tuesday at the airport before his body was transported 80km (50 miles) to Daura, where crowds surged to catch a final glimpse as the casket was lowered into the ground. Buhari died on Sunday in a London hospital following an undisclosed illness. His coffin, wrapped in Nigeria’s green and white flag, was flown into Katsina and met by President Bola Tinubu, senior government officials, and mourners. Buhari, who first seized power in a 1983 mil...
Post a Comment
Read All»