FirstBank has retained its title as Nigeria’s Best Bank for Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) at the prestigious Euromoney Awards for Excellence 2025. 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.
The Euromoney Awards for Excellence are highly regarded in the global financial industry, with a rigorous selection process that evaluates performance based on strategic and impact-oriented criteria. FirstBank’s win is a testament to its deepened sustainability commitments across its operations and community initiatives. In 2024, the bank screened 237 transactions worth over N3 trillion for sustainability risks, integrating ESG considerations into its credit framework.
One of FirstBank’s notable initiatives is its tree planting campaign in partnership with the Nigeria Conservation Foundation. The bank has planted over 30,000 trees in 16 locations across Nigeria, with a goal of 50,000 trees projected to absorb approximately 720 tonnes of CO2 by the end of 2025. This initiative contributes to climate resilience and supports biodiversity preservation.
FirstBank has also made significant strides in promoting gender inclusion through its Gender Market Strategy. The bank disbursed over N43 billion in FirstGem loans to women-led businesses in 2024, while its FirstMonie agents facilitated transactions worth over N9 trillion. Additionally, the bank prioritizes ESG capacity building, training over 9,000 employees and engaging with over 2,000 SMEs and corporates through webinars and workshops.
Commenting on the award, Patrick Akhidenor, Chief Risk Officer and Chairman of the FirstBank Sustainability Committee, said, “We are honored to receive this prestigious award for the second time in a row, which is a validation of our efforts to create a sustainable and inclusive future for all our stakeholders.” Akhidenor emphasized the bank’s approach to sustainability, which is hinged on three pillars: education, health, and welfare; diversity and financial inclusion; and responsible lending, procurement, and climate initiatives.
FirstBank’s win demonstrates its commitment to driving impact through purposeful initiatives and inclusive growth, ensuring that its ESG efforts create meaningful change in communities across Nigeria and beyond .
