First Bank Named Nigeria’s Strongest Brand

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

Brand Finance’s annual rankings evaluate brands across industries based on key metrics, including brand investment, brand equity, and business performance.

According to the report, FirstBank’s brand value rose with a Brand Strength Index (BSI) score of 92.2 per cent. This achievement is a testament to the Bank’s reputation as a reliable partner for both SMEs and private banking customers.

Speaking on the recognition, group head, Marketing and Corporate Communications at FirstBank, Olayinka Ijabiyi, said, for 132 years, the bank had provided the best-in-class financial services to individual customers, SMEs and corporates

“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.

“We are proud to be Nigeria’s strongest brand and will continue to innovate in providing financial solutions that empower individuals and businesses,” Ijabiyi added.

Also commenting on the recognition, managing director, Brand Finance Nigeria, Babatunde Odumeru, said, “FirstBank’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, FirstBank has been recognised by top rating institutions as one of Nigeria’s most resilient and respected brands. 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 FirstBank’s national-scale long-term issuer ratings of A+(NG).