First Bank, West Africa’s premier financial institution and financial inclusion service provider, has been recognised as the strongest brand in Nigeria in the “Nigeria 25 2026” ranking by Brand Finance, a leading independent brand valuation and strategy consultancy.

The Bank achieved an AAA+ rating, the highest possible distinction, underscoring its unmatched brand strength and leadership in the financial sector.

Speaking on the recognition, Group Head, Marketing and Corporate Communications at FirstBank, Olayinka Ijabiyi, said, “This recognition reflects the enduring trust our customers place in us and the unwavering commitment of our employees to deliver excellence. For 132 years, we have provided the best-in-class financial services to individual customers, SMEs and corporates.

Our customer-centric approach to banking has enabled us to blend our heritage with digital transformation, enhancing reliability, reputation, and engagement in the modern era. We remain committed to advancing financial inclusion and driving sustainable growth.”

Also commenting on the recognition, Managing Director, Brand Finance Nigeria, Babatunde Odumeru, said, “First Bank’s emergence as the country’s strongest brand highlights how long-established institutions can remain relevant by combining heritage, and customer-focused transformation. In this environment, brands that pair relevance with execution will be best placed to sustain long-term value.”

Over the years, First Bank has been recognised as one of Nigeria’s most resilient and respected brands by top rating institutions. This latest recognition from Brand Finance follows the 2025 upgrade of the Bank’s National Long-Term Ratings by Fitch to ‘A+(nga)’, with the Outlook seen as Stable. Similarly, GCR Ratings (GCR) affirmed First Bank’s national scale long -term issuer ratings of A+(NG).

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