First Bank
Pioneering Since 1894
Established in 1894, First Bank of Nigeria (FirstBank) is the country's oldest financial institution, headquartered in Marina, Lagos.
Over its 130-year history, it has played a pivotal role in Nigeria's economic development, from financing colonial infrastructure to supporting modern enterprises.
Notably, it was the first Nigerian bank to introduce ATMs in 1991 and biometric ATMs in 2011, showcasing its commitment to technological advancement.
Driving Digital Transformation
FirstBank has embraced digital innovation to enhance customer experience. It launched Digital Experience Centres featuring AI and humanoid robots, and established Nigeria’s first fully-fledged Digital Innovation Lab in 2018.
With over 23 million digital platform users and nearly 300,000 agency banking agents, the bank processes a significant portion of industry transactions among deposit money banks.
Championing SMEs and Financial Inclusion
Recognizing the importance of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), FirstBank has committed over ₦1 trillion in funding for SMEs in 2025. Initiatives like the SMEConnect platform and products such as FirstGem for women-led businesses underscore its dedication to inclusive growth.
Accolades and Future Outlook
FirstBank's excellence has been acknowledged with numerous awards, including "Best SME Bank in Africa" and "Most Innovative Digital Bank Nigeria" in 2024.
As it embarks on its 2025–2029 strategic cycle, the bank aims to expand its footprint into Europe and China, reinforcing its position as a leading African financial institution.
With a rich legacy and forward-looking strategies, First Bank of Nigeria continues to be a cornerstone of financial services in Africa.
