Leading financial institution, FirstBank of Nigeria Limited, has reaffirmed its commitment to sustainable development, recording major investments in renewable energy, financial inclusion and environmental conservation.
As global attention intensifies on climate change, social inequality and economic uncertainty, the bank said sustainability remains central to its growth strategy, anchored on Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) principles.
In 2025, FirstBank invested over nine million dollars in solar home projects across Africa, providing clean and affordable energy to underserved communities. It also committed more than N15 billion to support modular power plants, aimed at improving energy access and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
As part of its environmental conservation drive, the bank fulfilled its three-year partnership with the Nigerian Conservation Foundation to plant 51,000 trees nationwide, an initiative expected to absorb about 720 tonnes of carbon dioxide while promoting biodiversity.
Beyond environmental initiatives, FirstBank strengthened its social impact programmes, impacting over one million students with financial literacy education to promote informed financial decision-making. The bank also partnered with CFA Society Nigeria on the CFA Universities Ethics Challenge and supported the 15th Junior Achievement Company of the Year competition.
In promoting workplace inclusion, the bank invested in leadership development for more than 2,000 female employees through its Women Network initiative. It also screened 340 corporate transactions worth nearly five billion naira and 340 million dollars for ESG and sustainability risks, further integrating responsible lending into its credit framework.
The bank’s efforts earned it recognition as Nigeria’s Best Bank for ESG at the Euromoney Awards for Excellence 2025, marking the second consecutive year of receiving the honour.
FirstBank is also a corporate member of the Climate Governance Initiative Nigeria, where it serves on the Advisory Board and Steering Committee, and has adopted IFRS S1 and S2 standards to enhance transparency in sustainability disclosures.
The bank said it plans to deepen its sustainability drive through expanded renewable energy investments, strengthened financial literacy programmes and innovative partnerships aimed at promoting inclusive and responsible growth across Africa.
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