Again, FirstBank named best ESG Bank at 2025 Euromoney awards

FirstBank has once again been recognised for its outstanding contributions to sustainable finance, clinching the award for Nigeria’s Best Bank for Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) at the 2025 Euromoney Awards for Excellence held in London.

This marks the second consecutive win for the 130-year-old financial institution in the ESG category, further consolidating its reputation as a pioneer of responsible banking and purposeful impact in Nigeria and beyond.

The Euromoney Awards, among the most prestigious global accolades in the financial industry, involve a rigorous assessment process based on strategic performance, innovation, impact, and leadership.

In 2024 alone, the Bank screened 237 transactions valued at over N3 trillion for ESG risks, a demonstration of its integrated approach to responsible lending.

Among its flagship environmental initiatives, FirstBank launched a tree-planting campaign in collaboration with the Nigeria Conservation Foundation (NCF), planting over 30,000 trees across 16 locations.

This forms part of a broader 50,000-tree initiative projected to absorb over 720 tonnes of CO₂ by end-2025, supporting biodiversity and climate resilience.

The bank has also made remarkable strides in social inclusion. Through its FirstGem programme, over N43 billion in loans were disbursed to women-led businesses in 2024 alone.

Its FirstMonie agent network, now active in 772 of Nigeria’s 774 LGAs, processed over N9 trillion in transactions, broadening access to financial services in rural and underserved communities.

The FirstBank Women Network initiative has also benefited more than 2,000 female staff, supported their leadership development and closed gender gaps in banking.

Commenting on the achievement, Patrick Akhidenor, Chief Risk Officer and Chairman of the FirstBank Sustainability Committee, said: “We are honoured to receive this prestigious award for the second year running. It validates our drive to create a sustainable and inclusive future for our stakeholders.

“Our sustainability strategy is anchored on three key pillars: education, health and welfare; diversity and financial inclusion; and responsible lending and climate initiatives.”

He continued: “We remain focused on driving impact through purposeful initiatives and inclusive growth. Our ESG efforts are aimed at creating meaningful, long-term change across communities in Nigeria and the African continent.”