brand

FirstBank at 130 : Enabling the Giants in Customers, Stakeholder, Says Bolaji Israel

Published

1 year ago

March 19, 2024

“Like a fine wine, FirstBank has only improved with age, becoming more dynamic, innovative and trusted by the nation. This is a testament to the diligence and devotion of the many great leaders who have steered the bank to success. Under the leadership of the current Chief Executive Officer, Dr Adesola Adeduntan, FirstBank Group has continued to make giants of its customers and other stakeholders, demonstrating that the success stories of its customers remain its own success story”.March 31st, 2024 marks a significant milestone for FirstBank as it will attain 130 years of operation in Nigeria. From its humble beginnings in 1894 as the Bank of British West Africa, the institution has evolved into a financial behemoth and a formidable force not only in the banking industry but in the nation and beyond.Throughout its long and illustrious history, FirstBank has played a pivotal role in the economic development of Nigeria. Not only has it served as a monetary and fiscal policy regulator for the entire West African region, but it has also been at the forefront of technological, industrial, and societal advancements across the country.The banking giant has achieved numerous firsts, demonstrating resilience and support through periods of rapid and radical changes. It has also pioneered and charted the course in the financial industry and the nation.Over the years, FirstBank has become deeply ingrained in the fabric of the Nigerian nation and its vibrant population of over 220 million people. As a key financial player, the bank has recorded impressive trajectories for decades, experiencing massive growth and expansion in terms of revenue, influence, and technological advancements.Globally, only a select few institutions can boast a rich and relevant heritage as a member of the over 100-year Club, and FirstBank proudly holds that distinction with the Nigerian people. It serves as a symbol of pride and a beacon of hope for greater exploits from Africa.Like a fine wine, FirstBank has only improved with age, becoming more dynamic, innovative, and trusted by the nation. This is a testament to the diligence and devotion of the many great leaders who have steered the bank to success. Under the leadership of the current Chief Executive Officer, Dr Adesola Adeduntan, FirstBank Group has continued to make giants of its customers and other stakeholders, demonstrating that the success stories of its customers remain its own success story.The recent appointment of Femi Otedola as the Board Chairman in its 130th year indicates that the banking giant shows no signs of slowing down or resting on its laurels.While many smaller banks have collapsed, FirstBank has reinvented itself like the eagle, emerging stronger in terms of financial capacity, corporate governance, liquidity, industry leadership, optimised risk management and visionary roadmaps. The iconic elephant, representing the bank’s brand essence, symbolises its strength, agility, and forward momentum.The lending giant has acquired enterprise technology capacities and made significant investments in digital infrastructure, reducing brick and mortar practices. The bank recognises that its people are its biggest resource and has taken banking to the people, ensuring accessibility and inclusivity. Strategic recent investments in technology include the development of its smart and interactive Transaction Banking Platform known as FirstDirect2.0, the introduction of the Humanoid Robot to the banking ecosystem in the country.Others are its Digital Xperience Centre, currently in Lagos, Ibadan and the nation’s capital, Abuja. FirstBank is the first Nigerian bank to reach the milestone of issuing 10 million ATM card to its customers, the first amongst the existing banks to adopt the use of ATM amongst others.FirstBank has been nimble at promoting a digital economy in AfricaDuring the COVID-19 pandemic, the bank demonstrated its commitment to social responsibility by donating millions through CACOVID, providing online learning tools for students in partnership with the government, distributing food items, and implementing a hybrid work model to ensure the safety of its employees.In line with the UN Sustainable Development Goal 5 which seeks gender equality and empowerment for all women and girls, FirstBank has demonstrated its commitment to Diversity through policies, partnerships and initiatives, such as its employees’ ratio of female to male (39%:61%); and 32% women in management), as well as various initiatives aimed at addressing gender gap and increasing participation of women at all levels within the organisation. In addition, the Bank’s membership of the UN Women is an affirmation of a deliberate policy that is consistent with UN Women’s Women Empowerment’s Principles – Equal Opportunity, Inclusion, and Non-discrimination. Its financial holding company, the FBNHoldings recorded a 127 per cent rise in profit to N309.89bn in 2023 from N136.17bn recorded at the end of 2022.This was indicated in its unaudited consolidated financial statements for the period ended December 31, 2023, filed with the Nigerian Exchange Limited earlier in February.During the period under review, the interest income of the lender also rose by 66.27 per cent to N917.71bn from N551.94bn in 2022. Fee and commission income appreciated to N204.90bn from N143.98bn in the previous year.Furthermore, in recent years, FirstBank has transformed its banking model, embraced a more modern approach, and pioneered many firsts in digital and online banking solutions. The bank has invested resources to advance banking beyond physical walls, offering customers a plethora of options for convenient digital banking. Mobile banking, cards and personal banking, electronic banking, PoS agents, online banking, USSD services, and more have empowered millions of previously unbanked individuals in rural and underserved areas.With over 800 business locations and over 232,000 Banking agents spread across 99% of the 774 Local Government Areas in Nigeria, the Banking group provides a comprehensive range of retail and corporate financial services to serve its over 42 million customers.Its financial inclusion and cashless transaction drive have resulted in over 523 million active FirstBank customers on its digital channels, including the USSD quick banking service through the nationally acclaimed *894# banking code.More, the financial powerhouse has received some of the best-in-class global awards in banking for exceptional solutions and performances back-to-back in clear recognition of its outstanding stature and status. This includes Best Corporate Bank at the recent Euromoney Awards for Excellence, Nigeria 2023; Best Corporate Bank Western Africa, 2023, by Global Banking and Finance; Best Internet Banking in Nigeria, 2023, by International Business Awards; Most Innovative Banking Brand in Nigeria, by Global Brands Awards as well as the Financial Institution of the Year 2023, by Afreximbank Pan-African Business and Development. For six consecutive years (2011 – 2016), FirstBank was named “Most Valuable Bank Brand in Nigeria” by the globally renowned The Banker Magazine of the Financial Times Group and “Best Retail Bank in Nigeria” eight times in a row, 2011 – 2018, by the Asian Banker International Excellence in Retail Financial Services Awards. Furthermore, the Top 100 African Bank Rankings 2022 released by The Banker Magazine revealed FirstBank’s ranking as number one in Nigeria in terms of Overall Performance, Profitability, Efficiency and Return on Risk. Other notable awards received by FirstBank include “Best Private Bank for Sustainable Investing in Africa 2023” by Global Finance Awards; “Best Sustainable Bank in Nigeria 2023” by International Investors Awards; “Best Bespoke Banking Services in Nigeria 2023” by International Investors Awards; “Best Financial Inclusion Service Provider in Nigeria 2023” by Digital Banker Africa; and “African Bank of the Year” by African Leadership Magazine.In November 2022, Sam Aiyere-led FBNBank UK, a subsidiary of FirstBank Group to celebrate 40 years of steady operations and growth far away in the United Kingdom. FirstBank also boasts of international presence with subsidiaries operating in 9 other countries. These subsidiaries are FirstBank (UK) Limited in London and Paris, FirstBank in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Guinea, Sierra Leone, and The Gambia; FBNBank in Ghana and Senegal as well as a Representative Office in Beijing, China Beyond its global financial institutional leadership and growth, FirstBank has supported and enabled dreams, fostered trust, safety, and security, and created long-term value for all stakeholders. The bank has played a crucial role in empowering youths, entrepreneurs, women, students, and the rapidly growing creative industries locally, which are gaining global recognition. Its massive and strategic interventions through the DecemberIssaVybe, FirstGem, SPARK, FirstBank Women Network and numerous others campaign have been impactful especially in addressing some key United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals.As FirstBank rolls out the drums and unveil an array of engagements to commemorate the huge milestones.

Post Views: 327

brand

Fidelity Bank Named “Nigeria’s Best Private Bank” at Euromoney Awards

Published

1 week ago

April 17, 2025

NewsThumb Magz

Tier one bank, Fidelity Bank PLC, has been named “Nigeria’s Best Private Bank” at the prestigious Euromoney Awards 2025. The recognition was formally unveiled at the awards ceremony held recently at The Savoy in London.

The Euromoney Awards for Excellence are prestigious annual honors and a benchmark for excellence in the global banking and finance industry. Established by Euromoney magazine, the awards highlight outstanding performance, innovation, leadership, and service excellence across various financial sectors and regions.

Commenting on the award, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Fidelity Bank PLC, Dr. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe said, “We are truly honored to be recognized by Euromoney as Nigeria’s Best Private Bank. This award is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our staff as well as our strong commitment to delivering premium wealth management solutions, personalized financial advisory, and superior client service to high-net-worth individuals in Nigeria and beyond.”

The Euromoney Awards are among the most highly respected in the global financial industry. Winning such an award for its private banking business further builds on Fidelity Bank’s growing reputation as one of Nigeria’s most trusted and customer-centric financial institutions.

According to a statement on Euromoney’s website, “The bank’s commitment to providing specialised credit solutions also sets it apart. Clients benefit from tailored lending options, including asset-backed lending, real estate financing, and customised credit facilities. These solutions are structured to support complex financial needs while ensuring flexibility and ease.”

Fidelity Bank Plc is a full-fledged commercial bank with over 9.1 million customers who are serviced across its 251 business offices and various digital banking channels in Nigeria and the United Kingdom.

The Bank is the recipient of multiple local and international Awards, including the 2024 Excellence in Digital Transformation & MSME Banking Award by BusinessDay Banks and Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards; the 2024 Most Innovative Mobile Banking Application award for its Fidelity Mobile App by Global Business Outlook, and the 2024 Most Innovative Investment Banking Service Provider award by Global Brands Magazine. Additionally, the Bank was recognized as the Best Bank for SMEs in Nigeria by the Euromoney Awards for Excellence and as the Export Financing Bank of the Year by the BusinessDay Banks and Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards.

Post Views: 196

brand

Access Holdings Records 88% Growth in Gross Earnings to N4.878 Trillion

Published

2 weeks ago

April 16, 2025

NewsThumb Magz

Access Holdings PLC (“the Group”) (Bloomberg: ACCESSCO), a leading African financial services group, today, announced its audited financial results for the full year ended December 31, 2024. The Group delivered 88% year-on-year growth in gross earnings, rising from N2.594 trillion in 2023 to N4.878 trillion in 2024. The strong performance was driven by diversified income streams, with interest income growing by 110% to N3.480 trillion and non-interest income increasing by 47.8% to N1.397 trillion, supported by robust retail banking activities, digital expansion, and a dynamic trading strategy.Profit before tax (PBT) increased by 19% to N867.0 billion, while profit after tax (PAT) rose to N642.2 billion, despite inflationary and macroeconomic challenges. Total assets grew by 55.5% to N41.498 trillion, and customer deposits rose by 47% to N22.525 trillion. Shareholders’ funds also increased by 72%, reaching N3.760 trillion.In 2024, the Group made significant social and environmental impact across the continent, touching millions of lives and earning multiple industry accolades. Through various corporate social investment initiatives in education, entrepreneurship, health, and the environment, the Group reached over 21 million individuals across Africa. Its employee wellness programmes also covered 28,000 staff across operating entities. Access Bank, the flagship subsidiary, through its W-Initiative, disbursed loans to over a million women-led SMEs, advancing financial inclusion and gender empowerment.The Group’s efforts attracted prestigious recognition and awards, including three Euromoney Awards for Excellence (notably ‘Best Bank for ESG’); International Finance Award for ‘Most Innovative Bank for Community Development and Community Engagement’; and World Economic Magazine Award for ‘Most Sustainable Bank’.In terms of economic sustainability, Access Bank recorded strong strides through its Economic, Social and Governance (ESG) programmes. It facilitated $437.42 million in DFI inflows to support MSMEs across Africa, disbursed 1.6 million digital loans to low-income individuals, and booked its first N1.4 billion diaspora mortgage loan.The Group also achieved a 13.4% reduction in operational emissions, planted 57,302 trees, and enabled solar power adoption for 226 homes and businesses. Its headquarters was awarded the IFC EDGE (Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies) Green Building Certification for sustainable design and construction
standards.In addition, Access employees contributed 228,500 volunteer hours to various community development programmes, reinforcing the Group’s commitment to inclusive and purpose-driven impact.The Group is focused on delivering sustainable returns to shareholders, while reinvesting in innovation, infrastructure, and cross-border expansion. Its banking subsidiary launched operations in Hong Kong, received regulatory approval in Malta, and successfully integrated its operations in Zambia and Tanzania, expanding its global footprint.Access Bank posted significant gains across all performance metrics, with interest income growing by 110% and fees and commissions rising by 81%. International subsidiaries contributed 48.5% to the banking segment’s PBT, demonstrating strong execution across key markets.In 2024, Access Holdings also became the first institution to meet the Central Bank of Nigeria’s recapitalisation directive, raising 351 billion through a rights issue. The₦ proceeds are being strategically deployed to strengthen digital infrastructure, enhance liquidity, and fuel long-term growth.Looking ahead, Access Holdings remains committed to building a more inclusive, sustainable, and profitable future, delivering delivering value not just to shareholders, but to society and the environment at large.

Post Views: 74

brand

JIM OVIA ADMITTED TO THE FREEDOM OF THE CITY OF LONDON

Published

2 weeks ago

April 10, 2025

NewsThumb Magz

L-R: Chairman, Access Holdings Plc, Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, CFR; His Eminence John Cardinal Onaiyekan; President of Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, GCON; Founder and Chairman of Zenith Bank Plc, Jim Ovia, CFR; Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu; and Governor of Delta State, Rt.Hon. (Elder) Sherrif Oborevwori, during the admission of Jim Ovia to the Freedom of the City of London in the United Kingdom, on Monday.
The Founder and Chairman of Zenith Bank Plc, Jim Ovia, CFR, has been admitted to the prestigious Freedom of the City of London in a distinguished ceremony which held at the Mansion House, City of London on Monday, April 7, 2025. This prestigious accolade is a testament to Mr. Ovia’s exceptional contributions to the global financial landscape, unwavering commitment to fostering economic development, and dedication to philanthropic endeavours that have positively impacted countless lives.The Freedom of the City of London, a time-honoured tradition dating back to the 13th century, is one of the oldest surviving ceremonies in the United Kingdom. Historically, it granted freemen certain rights and privileges within the city. Today, it stands as a symbolic recognition of individuals who have made outstanding contributions to London or the wider society. This honour places Mr. Ovia among a distinguished group of recipients, which includes notable figures from various fields such as Nelson Mandela, Bill Gates, Sir Winston Churchill, Desmond Tutu, Harry Kane, Morgan Freeman and Ian Wright.Commenting on his new status as a Freeman of the City of London, the distinguished honoree, Jim Ovia, CFR said “It is indeed a great honour to be admitted to the prestigious Freedom of the City of London. This is not just a recognition of my personal achievements, but also a testament to the tireless efforts of the entire Zenith team who have worked diligently to establish our institution as a leading force in global finance. I am proud to be part of a legacy that celebrates innovation, excellence and the spirit of entrepreneurship. I dedicate this to the people of Nigeria and Africa who continue to inspire me with their resilience and determination. I look forward to continuing to play a role in shaping the economic landscape of our great continent and beyond.”Joining the nation in congratulating Mr. Ovia, President Bola Tinubu, through a press statement by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, commended Mr. Ovia for being a distinguished ambassador of the nation’s private sector. He described the honour as a fitting recognition of his exceptional contributions to business, innovation, and technology, as well as for his role in shaping Nigeria’s financial landscape and strengthening economic ties between Africa and the rest of the world. According to him, “This honour is a testament to your unwavering commitment to excellence, your pioneering role in the growth of the financial services sector in Nigeria, and your visionary leadership that continues to inspire generations. As an accomplished entrepreneur and advocate of innovation-driven development, your recognition in the City of London affirms the global relevance of Nigerian excellence and enterprise”.Dignitaries at the ceremony include Former President of Nigeria, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, GCFR; Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-olu; Governor of Delta State, Rt.Hon. (Elder) Sherrif Oborevwori; Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah; President of Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, GCON; Minister of State for Finance, Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite; Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, MFR; Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu; Oba of Oniru, Oba Abdulwasiu Lawal; Group Managing Director, TGI Group of Companies, Rahul Savara; Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Nnaemeka Alfred Achebe, CFR, and His Eminence John Cardinal Onaiyekan, who joined Zenith Bank Executives in celebrating this significant milestone.This well-deserved recognition rides on the back of many other prestigious awards that Mr. Ovia has received for his outstanding contributions to banking, education and philanthropy including conferment of Commander of the Federal Republic (CFR) & National Productivity Order of Merit (NPOM) Award in 2022 by the Federal Government of Nigeria. He was also named the Banker of the Year in 2007 and Titan of the year in 2024 by ThisDay Newspaper, and received the African Business Leader Award from the Africa-America Institute. He received honorary degrees from the University of Lagos as well as from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka and was recognized by Forbes Africa as one of the most influential figures in banking.