FirstBank of Nigeria has confirmed the appointment of Olayinka Thomas Ijabiyi as its substantive Group Head, Marketing and Corporate Communications, effective immediately.
The bank said the appointment underscores its commitment to strong corporate governance as it advances its growth and transformation agenda across key markets.
Ijabiyi, a seasoned marketing and communications professional with over 25 years of experience, has been serving in an acting capacity since December 2024 before his confirmation.
In his current role, he is responsible for driving integrated marketing and corporate communications strategies across the Group, including brand and reputation management, executive positioning, corporate responsibility and sustainability, as well as stakeholder engagement.
Since joining FirstBank in 2011, he has held several leadership roles within the bank’s Marketing and Corporate Communications Department, including Head of Brand Strategy and Special Projects, Head of Digital Marketing, and Head of Brand and Stakeholder Management.
Prior to his time at FirstBank, Ijabiyi built a diverse career across organisations such as British Council, MultiChoice Group, MTN Nigeria, and Etisalat Nigeria, where he contributed to brand development, corporate communications, and digital transformation initiatives.
He is widely regarded for his strategic approach to brand building and his ability to align communications with business objectives, having led several high-impact campaigns, including milestone anniversary projects and brand refresh initiatives.
Ijabiyi holds a Master’s degree in Public and International Affairs from the University of Lagos and a Bachelor’s degree in English Language from the former Ondo State University, Ado Ekiti. He is also a Fellow of the National Institute of Marketing of Nigeria and a member of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations.
The appointment positions him to lead the bank’s brand and communications strategy as it continues to strengthen its market presence and stakeholder engagement across the region.
