Lagos, Nigeria – First Bank has made significant strides in promoting sustainability and ESG principles, with notable achievements in renewable energy, financial inclusion, and environmental conservation across Nigeria and Africa.
Okay News reports that the bank’s sustainability initiatives are anchored on three pillars: education, health and welfare; diversity and financial inclusion; and responsible lending, procurement, and climate initiatives. In 2025, the bank invested over $9 million in solar home projects across Africa, providing clean and affordable energy to communities. It also supported modular power plants with over N15 billion, enhancing energy access and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
First Bank fulfilled its three-year commitment with the Nigerian Conservation Foundation to plant 51,000 trees across Nigeria, promoting biodiversity preservation and absorbing approximately 720 tonnes of carbon dioxide. The bank’s sustainability initiatives extend beyond environmental conservation, with over one million students impacted with financial literacy skills, empowering them to make informed financial decisions and secure their futures.
The bank screened 340 corporate transactions for ESG risks worth almost N5 billion and $340 million within the year, further integrating sustainability considerations into its credit framework. FirstBank also invested in leadership development for over 2,000 female employees through the FirstBank Women Network, promoting diversity and inclusion in the workplace. Its commitment to sustainability earned it Nigeria’s Best Bank for Environmental, Social, and Governance at the Euromoney Awards for Excellence 2025 for the second consecutive time.
The bank’s climate governance commitment was demonstrated through its corporate membership of Climate Governance Initiative Nigeria, where it serves on the Advisory Board and Steering Committee. First Bank has implemented IFRS S1 and S2 standards for transparent sustainability disclosures, enhanced board oversight via its Board Risk Management Committee, and integrated climate considerations into risk management and decision-making. Looking ahead, the bank plans to expand its sustainability efforts through strategic partnerships and increase investment in renewable energy projects, financial literacy programmes, and sustainable business practices. These sustainability initiatives demonstrate that environmental responsibility and business growth can go hand-in-hand, creating value for stakeholders while contributing to a more equitable future. Sustained sustainability initiatives position First Bank as a model for other financial institutions across Africa.
