FirstBank Clinches Best Bank for ESG in Nigeria at 2025 Euromoney Awards

FirstBank of Nigeria has once again reinforced its position as a leader in sustainable finance, clinching the award for Nigeria’s Best Bank for Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) at the 2025 Euromoney Awards for Excellence. The award ceremony, held recently in London, marks the bank’s second consecutive win in this highly competitive category.

Renowned as one of the most prestigious recognitions in the global financial industry, the Euromoney Awards for Excellence spotlight institutions that demonstrate exceptional performance, innovation, and commitment to impact-driven banking practices. FirstBank’s latest win underscores its sustained leadership in ESG and responsible banking in Nigeria.

The bank’s recognition stems from its comprehensive integration of sustainability into core operations and community development programmes. In 2024 alone, FirstBank screened 237 transactions valued at over ₦3 trillion for sustainability-related risks, ensuring ESG principles are embedded within its credit risk assessment framework.

Among the bank’s flagship initiatives is a large-scale tree planting campaign launched in collaboration with the Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF). The campaign saw the planting of over 30,000 trees in 16 locations nationwide, with a goal of reaching 50,000 trees by the end of 2025. The initiative is projected to sequester approximately 720 tonnes of CO₂, contributing to climate resilience and environmental preservation.

FirstBank has also made significant strides in gender empowerment and financial inclusion. In 2024, the bank disbursed over ₦43 billion in FirstGem loans targeted at women-led enterprises. Its FirstMonie agent banking platform facilitated transactions exceeding ₦9 trillion, expanding access to financial services across underserved communities.

Further cementing its ESG commitment, the bank trained over 9,000 employees on sustainability practices, while also reaching more than 2,000 SMEs and corporates through ESG-focused webinars and workshops. The FirstBank Women Network, which provides leadership development opportunities for over 2,000 female staff, reflects the bank’s dedication to workforce diversity and inclusive growth.

Speaking on the recognition, Patrick Akhidenor, Chief Risk Officer and Chairman of FirstBank’s Sustainability Committee, said the award affirms the bank’s commitment to responsible and impactful banking.

“We are honoured to receive this prestigious award for the second year running. It validates our consistent efforts to build a sustainable and inclusive future for all our stakeholders. Our ESG strategy is anchored on three pillars: education, health and welfare; diversity and financial inclusion; and responsible lending, procurement, and climate initiatives,” he said.

Akhidenor emphasized that the bank remains committed to driving meaningful impact across communities in Nigeria and beyond through purposeful initiatives that align with its vision of being Africa’s bank of first choice, led by responsibility, innovation, and purpose.