Lauds First Bank’s new headquarters in Eko Atlantic
President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to creating a sustainable and globally competitive economic system, positioning Nigerian financial institutions for growth and expansion beyond the country’s borders.
Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony for First Bank of Nigeria’s new headquarters at Eko Atlantic City, Lagos, President Tinubu—represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima—stressed that banking institutions thrive when the economy flourishes.
He said that his government is implementing bold economic policies to stabilize and transform Nigeria’s financial landscape.
The President acknowledged that his administration took office at a critical time that required difficult but necessary decisions to stabilize both the fiscal and monetary landscape.
However, he assured financial institutions and businesses of government support in fostering an environment where they can thrive.
“We are committed to creating an enabling environment for businesses to flourish. Our expectation is for our banks to excel, expand beyond our shores, and rank among the world’s most viable financial institutions,” he said.
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President Tinubu praised First Bank’s resilience, adaptability, and innovation, noting that its 130-year legacy demonstrates the ability to reinvent and remain relevant despite industry disruptions.
Congratulating First Bank’s board and management on investing in a state-of-the-art headquarters, Tinubu emphasised that the new structure reassures customers, shareholders, and the government that Nigeria’s oldest financial institution is continually evolving.
“This groundbreaking ceremony is more than laying the foundation for a new edifice; it testifies to First Bank’s commitment to reinvention, adapting to modern realities while staying true to its heritage,” he added.
However, the Chairman of First Bank Holdings, Femi Otedola, expressed gratitude to the President, Vice President, Lagos State Government, and First Bank’s customers and regulators, particularly the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, for their support in stabilizing the banking sector.
Furthermore, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu commended President Tinubu’s vision for Eko Atlantic City, recalling that he was part of the administration that initiated the project despite initial scepticism.
He reaffirmed Lagos’ ambition to become Africa’s financial hub.
“We want Lagos to be the centrepiece of finance and commerce, not just in Nigeria but across Africa. We are building a secure and thriving mega-city ready to lead in the financial sector,” Sanwo-Olu stated.
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Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun described First Bank’s new headquarters as a bold and audacious move, reinforcing the bank’s trailblazing status in Nigeria’s financial sector.
Business magnate Aliko Dangote lauded First Bank’s continued leadership, joking that while he plans to rest after completing his refinery project, he might soon join First Bank in Eko Atlantic City.
Meanwhile, First Bank’s Managing Director/CEO, Olusegun Alebiosu, highlighted the institution’s role in shaping Nigeria’s financial landscape for over 130 years, pledging continued transparency, accountability, and innovation in service delivery.
With the groundbreaking of its new headquarters, First Bank aims to further solidify its position as a dominant player in Nigeria’s financial ecosystem, reinforcing its commitment to growth, resilience, and customer-centric banking.
