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FirstBank Wins Second Consecutive ESG Award at Euromoney Awards 2025
By prince Benson Davies
FirstBank has been recognized as Nigeria’s Best Bank for Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) at the prestigious Euromoney Awards for Excellence 2025, held in London. This marks the bank’s second consecutive win in the ESG category, solidifying its position as a leader in sustainable finance and responsible banking in Nigeria.
Key Highlights:
– Sustainability Commitments: FirstBank screened 237 transactions worth over ₦3 trillion for sustainability risks in 2024, integrating ESG considerations into its credit framework.
– Tree Planting Initiative: The bank partnered with the Nigeria Conservation Foundation to plant over 30,000 trees in 16 locations, aiming to absorb approximately 720 tonnes of CO₂ by the end of 2025.
– Gender Inclusion: FirstBank disbursed over ₦43 billion in FirstGem loans to women-led businesses in 2024 and saw a significant increase in transactions facilitated by FirstMonie agents to over ₦9 trillion.
– Capacity Building: Over 9,000 employees received sustainability training, and webinars reached over 2,000 SMEs and corporates.
Commenting on the Award:
“We are honoured to receive this prestigious award for the second time in a row, validating our efforts to create a sustainable and inclusive future,” said Patrick Akhidenor, Chief Risk Officer and Chairman of the FirstBank Sustainability Committee. “Our approach to sustainability is based on three pillars: education, health and welfare; diversity and financial inclusion; responsible lending, procurement, and climate initiatives.”
FirstBank’s Vision:
The bank’s continued success in ESG and sustainability is driven by its vision to be Africa’s bank of first choice, leading with purpose, responsibility, and innovation.
