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ADESOLA ADEDUNTAN, CEO, FIRSTBANK – HOW TO DO WELL BY DOING GOOD
I travel to meet Dr Adesola Adeduntan in Edinburgh, where he has been invited to give a keynote address at the Edinburgh School of Business about the role of financial institutions in driving financial inclusion.Fittingly, as you land in Edinburgh, you are greeted by billboards from different investment funds advertising their credentials in responsible and sustainable investment and how environmental, social and governance (ESG) considerations underpin their activities.
With economists and politicians questioning capitalism and the Western liberal model, today the emphasis is very much on a stakeholder-based approach, whereby growth and prosperity is more equally attributed and takes into consideration the needs of the wider community. Sustainable investment has become de rigueur among corporate jargon.
Dr Adesola Kazeem Adeduntan, CEO of First Bank of Nigeria, is a veteran in the Nigerian banking and corporate world. His overriding message, clearly expressed throughout his interview responses, and also at the various talks he gave during the day (at the Business School and at a law firm), is on the importance of doing good if you’re to do well – financially – in Nigeria and indeed, Africa.
A telling sign
FirstBank is actually the oldest bank in Africa. It was established in Lagos in 1894 as the Bank of British West Africa. Last year it celebrated its 125th anniversary. It is also the biggest bank in Nigeria in terms of assets and branch network.
For Adeduntan, a veterinary doctor by training, it becomes clear, once we have settled down for our discussion, that the institution’s longevity is a telling sign: it not only proves the bank’s resilience, it also shows that it has the right structures in terms of governance and the right business model, with the country’s development at its core. The theme of the anniversary celebrations was about how the bank has been woven into the fabric of Nigerian society.
The clear message to the industry is that while it is possible to make a quick buck, you can only enjoy the sort of longevity it has if you conduct your business with the interests of the country at heart.
Nonetheless, it’s apparent Adeduntan does not want to dwell too long on past glories. Using the analogy of a car, he says that there is a reason why the windshield is large whilst the rear-view mirror is small.
The challenge of fintech
As in most sectors, traditional ways of doing business have been coming under increasing disruption from ever-evolving technology. The banking industry is no exception and seems to be under siege from an expanding fintech onslaught.
I ask him if he is worried that non-financial companies will be entering the banking sector, especially given the recent change in regulation by the Central Bank that allows non-traditional finance institutions, namely mobile operators, to enter the fray.
He says he is not worried as his bank has one of the best defined strategies when it comes to financial inclusion and that it has the largest digital banking network in Nigeria.
Much of this has been developed through the bank’s FirstMonie Agents system: 46,000 agents represent the bank across the country. Currently, 9m customers transact on their USSD platform (by mobile phone, both smart and analogue) in addition to 3m customers transacting on the FirstMobile platform.
The agent network, the biggest of its kind in the country, enables the bank to provide services to the most remote rural communities; and because it doesn’t need to have an extensive branch network, it means that these services can be supplied at a fraction of the cost of a ‘legacy’ banking model.
Financial deepening
Adeduntan prefers to use the phrase ‘financial deepening’ when talking about the unbanked. Financial inclusion has increased from the low 20s to approximately 40% in Nigeria over the past seven years and is expected to double to the mid-80s within the next five years.
He says ‘financial deepening’ occurs when financial inclusion starts playing an important role in economic development. It’s about layering additional products on the current agency banking network – services such as micro-credit, micro-insurance and micro-pension.
The aim is to provide value-added services whilst at the same time increasing the savings rate; this aspect, which is critical in driving investment rates, has been one factor behind Asia’s rapid growth.
It is in this area, he says, that the bank has a vital role to play and a distinct advantage over new entrants. Technology, he emphasises, will play a crucial part in broadening financial inclusion. In addition, it is important to partner and collaborate with different stakeholders such as NGOs and other organisations dealing with the bottom of the pyramid, to help them reach out to different groups and also improve financial literacy.
Last year saw a boom in venture capital investment into Nigeria. For example, $400m was invested in a number of fintech start-ups during November alone. Is he not worried that these fintech players, with their lower cost base and ability to use technology, AI and big data to overcome traditional hurdles, are going to take the majority share of the pie when it comes to servicing the unbanked?
He says that will only be the case if the banks do not manage to reinvent themselves. In Edinburgh, he actually spent a large part of his day visiting tech hubs around the university in the city and speaking to fintech companies. FirstBank, he adds, has a number of partnerships with fintechs as well as its own Digital Laboratory developing new solutions for the bank.
Nevertheless, he firmly believes that the ‘legacy banks’ will still continue to play a very central role, especially “in this part of the world where banks are quite dominant and they have significant buying power”.
In terms of settlements and deposits, he sees many of these new players as partners they can work with, even if in some areas they will be competitors.
Scope for growth
Despite the impressive strides made by the banking sector in Nigeria, Adeduntan believes there is still a massive scope for growth for the sector. He points out that none of the country’s top banks have made the Top 10 Banks in Africa list, despite Nigeria being the continent’s largest economy.
He thinks that with the signing of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement, “we are entering a very interesting period for the banking sector, not only in Nigeria but Africa in general”.
On the domestic front, does he expect further consolidation? “Within certain thresholds,” he answers. “Anything that would allow the strengthening of the entire banking sector, I am sure the Governor of the Central Bank would be positive about.”
He also points to demographics and the high rate of the unbanked as great opportunities for the growth of the sector continentally. “According to UNICEF, two billion babies will be born in Africa in the next 30 years,” he says. “And in places like DRC [where FirstBank has a presence] financial penetration is as low as 5%.” Put the two sets of figures together and, in theory at least, you get vast opportunity. But he adds the all-important caveat that demographics are only good if managed properly.
Supporting national champions
It hasn’t all been plain sailing for the bank, however. Adeduntan inherited a bank with several large exposures in the oil & gas and energy sectors, at a time when the oil & gas prices fell considerably, resulting in the devaluation of the naira against the dollar.
He says his management weathered the storm, reduced NPL levels to under double digits, and has strengthened the risk infrastructure, thus enabling the bank to better deal with cyclical downturns in future.
Discussing the role of large companies in the commercial landscape, Adeduntan says it is essential to have big banks like FirstBank, just as it is vital to have national champion companies that have the scale and wherewithal to make transformative investment. Such companies require financial institutions of similar scale to support them. The Dangote Group’s investment into what will become the continent’s largest oil refinery is a case in point, he adds.
Role of the Central Bank
We move on to the regulator and the role of the Central Bank. Does he think that it is too interventionist, dictating how much banks should lend, where they should place their assets?
Adeduntan refused to be drawn into criticism of the regulator, with whom he says he, and other bank CEOs, have a strong relationship. But he did say that the role of a central bank in the development of an emerging economy is clearly different from the role of a central bank in a developed economy.
“It is not unusual that the Central Bank intervenes in critical sectors allied to the loan to deposit ratio. It’s about economic growth; it’s about development; it’s about channelling credit in sectors that are very important for the national economy.
“Let us take agriculture – again, we are one of the biggest lenders into that sector. We found the Central Bank intervention in some of those critical sectors extremely useful and not just for us as a bank, but for the country as a whole. When you look at intervention in agriculture, you have to put it in the context of the size of the population. Nigeria is a country of 200m people today. The business of feeding 200m people is a strategic business. Everything that is being done to ensure that at least we are self-sufficient in food production is strategically important. We find the Central Bank intervention in those areas quite useful and of national importance.”
He reflected the positive attitude of many Nigerian entrepreneurs to the country’s future. He says he has a lot of time for the Economic Advisory Council – composed of credible business leaders and economists – that has been put together by President Muhammadu Buhari. And despite reports that the government is not economy-minded, he thinks that it is a pro-business government.
Ethical banking
It is nearly 10.00 in the evening when we finish our talk, his day having started at 07.30am. We go back to sustainability and the role of financial services to make sure they are lending to institutions that are ethical about their business and operating in a sustainable manner.
He says that the journey has started even if it is still early days. “But ultimately,” he says, “this is where we are headed. The Nigerian Sustainable Banking Principle speaks to this particular question. I think it’s evident from the points that I’ve made today, you can say that FirstBank is a bank that is happy to forego a few basis points in terms of its net margins, if that means it is contributing to development in a more ethical and sustainable way.
“We’ve always made a point that profitability is very important for us at FirstBank, but economic growth and national development is equally very important and speaks to the sustainability question.”
Zenith Bank Plc has announced the opening of a new branch in Manchester, United Kingdom, marking another significant milestone in the bank’s international growth and its commitment to strengthening financial connections between Africa and global markets.The official opening ceremony, scheduled to hold on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, is expected to attract government officials from Nigeria and the United Kingdom, regulators, investors, customers, and business leaders from both countries, underscoring the growing economic ties and investment opportunities between the two markets.The new Manchester branch will complement Zenith Bank’s existing operations in the United Kingdom and serve as a strategic hub for supporting businesses engaged in international trade and investment. Through the branch, the bank will provide corporate banking, trade finance, treasury and related financial services to clients operating across the United Kingdom, Europe and Africa.Speaking ahead of the launch, the Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Zenith Bank Plc, Dame Dr. Adaora Umeoji, OON, said: “The opening of our Manchester branch represents another important step in Zenith Bank’s growth as a leading African financial institution connecting businesses and markets across continents. Manchester is one of the United Kingdom’s most dynamic commercial centres, and our presence here will further strengthen financial connections between businesses in the UK and opportunities across Africa’s rapidly expanding markets.”Founded in 1990 by its Founder and Chairman, Jim Ovia, CFR, Zenith Bank has grown into one of Africa’s most respected banking institutions, boasting a robust capital base and a remarkable history of year-on-year profitability. Built on a strong foundation of people, technology and service, the Bank has consistently delivered innovative financial solutions while maintaining a disciplined approach to growth and risk management. The impressive performance of the Bank has consistently earned it excellent ratings, recognition and endorsement from local and international agencies and institutions.Headquartered in Lagos, Nigeria, Zenith Bank operates over 500 branches and business offices across the 36 States of the Federation and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The Bank currently operates subsidiaries in several African countries including Ghana, Sierra Leone, Gambia, and Cote d’Ivoire, while maintaining a presence in major international financial centres including the United Kingdom, France, UAE and China. In recent years, Zenith Bank has continued to expand its international network as part of its strategy to support global trade and investment flows involving Africa.Manchester, widely regarded as one of the United Kingdom’s most vibrant economic centres, hosts a diverse base of businesses across sectors such as manufacturing, engineering, logistics, technology and consumer goods. The city’s strong commercial ecosystem and international outlook align closely with Zenith Bank’s expertise in corporate banking, structured finance and trade finance.The Manchester branch will work closely with the Bank’s London operations and its broader international network to support clients seeking to expand across markets and unlock new opportunities in both the United Kingdom and Africa.
With the opening of the Manchester branch, Zenith Bank continues to advance its vision of building a truly global African banking institution that connects businesses, facilitates trade and investment, and creates stronger economic bridges between Africa and the world.
Zenith Bank Plc will commemorate the 2026 International Women’s Day with a renewed call to purposeful action and leadership. As part of preparations to celebrate this significant occasion, the Bank is set to hold its annual International Women’s Day Seminar on Monday, March 9, 2026, at The Civic Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos.Aligned with the global theme ‘Give to Gain” which underscores the principle that sustainable progress is achieved when individuals and institutions invest intentionally in women, Zenith Bank’s 2026 IWD seminar is themed “Take It, You Own It.” The theme reflects the Bank’s belief that while institutions must give through enabling environments and equitable systems, women must also step forward to claim space, own their value, and lead with confidence. It is both an affirmation and a challenge: embrace opportunity, empower yourself and others, and take ownership of your growth journey.Building on the success of previous seminars, including the 2025 edition themed “Winning On All Fronts”, Zenith Bank’s 2026 programme is designed to deepen meaningful engagement around women’s empowerment, leadership, and sustainable impact. Over the years, the Bank’s International Women’s Day initiatives have brought together women leaders, professionals, entrepreneurs, and emerging talents for dynamic dialogue, inspiration, and shared learning around gender equity, professional growth, and inclusive opportunity.More than a commemorative gathering, the 2026 seminar is designed as a convergence of influence, insight, and inspiration, bringing together accomplished women and progressive leaders across business, governance, creative industries, technology, and social impact.Speaking ahead of the Seminar, the Group Managing Director/CEO, Dame Dr. Adaora Umeoji, OON, who will deliver the welcome address, said “The International Women’s Day is a reminder that progress requires intentionality. ‘Give to Gain’ speaks to the responsibility institutions have to create real opportunities, while our theme ‘Take It, You Own It’ challenges women to step forward boldly and lead. At Zenith Bank, we are deliberate about building environments where women are supported to grow, thrive, and shape outcomes, not only within our institution but across the communities and industries we serve.”The seminar will include segments focused on leadership insight, professional empowerment, wellbeing, and collaboration, offering attendees opportunities to engage deeply with thought leadership and practical strategies for advancing equity. With a carefully curated programme spanning keynote addresses, panel conversations, Q&A sessions, and creative interludes, Zenith Bank’s 2026 International Women’s Day Seminar promises to be a catalyst for meaningful action.Through its alignment with “Give to Gain” and its bold seminar theme, “Take It, You Own It,” Zenith Bank reaffirms its belief that when institutions give intentionally and women lead confidently, entire ecosystems rise. As conversations around inclusion continue to shape the future of business and society, the Bank remains resolute in its mission to foster platforms where women’s potential is recognised, amplified, and fully owned.
L-R: District Head, Kyangakwai, Alhaji Suleiman Musa; Former Speaker, Kebbi State House of Assembly, Mr Isma’ila Abdulmumuni Kamba; District Head, Kamba (Sarkin Shikon Kamba), Mamuda Zarummai; Council Secretary, Dandi Local Government, Kebbi State, Alhaji Abdulkadir Muhammad; and Regional Bank Head, North-West Zone 2, Fidelity Bank Plc, Mr Muhammad Lawal-Ahijo; at the official commissioning of the new Fidelity Bank Plc branch in Kamba, Dandi Local Government Area, Kebbi State recently.
Residents of Kamba in Dandi Local Government Area of Kebbi State have welcomed the opening of a new branch of Fidelity Bank Plc, describing it as a major milestone that will ease long-standing financial and logistics challenges faced by farmers, small-scale traders and individuals in the community.
The Chairman of Dandi Local Government Council, Dr. Mansur Isah-Kamba, described the branch as a welcome relief after years of limited access to formal banking services. Represented by the Council Secretary, Alhaji Abdulkadir Muhammad, Isah-Kamba noted that residents – including over 83 traditional rulers on the local government payroll—previously travelled long distances to Birnin Kebbi for routine banking transactions.
“With the opening of this branch in our locality, the stress, cost and time associated with banking outside the community will be significantly reduced,” he said. He also commended Fidelity Bank for its foresight and commitment to supporting farmers and small and medium-scale enterprises (SMEs).
On his part, the Sarkin Shikon of Kamba, Alhaji Mahmoud Zarumai-Fana, described farming as the primary occupation in the area will help improve commercial activities.
“Our people are predominantly farmers. Access to financial services will help them improve productivity and livelihoods. Farmers need support such as pumping machines, fertilisers, and pesticides, and proximity to banking services will make it easier to save, access loans, and participate in agricultural intervention programmes,” he said.
Speaking at the official inauguration ceremony, Regional Bank Head, North‑West Region, Fidelity Bank Plc, Mr. Muhammad Lawal‑Ahijo, highlighted the bank’s commitment to expanding financial access and supporting economic growth across Nigeria.
“Our decision to establish this branch is rooted in our belief that every community deserves access to reliable financial services that enable people to grow, businesses to thrive, and local economies to prosper. Kamba is a thriving agricultural community, and the decision to open a branch here is a strategic investment in the future of its farmers, traders, and households. While the infrastructure is for the bank, this branch belongs to the community. We encourage residents to take ownership by fully utilising the services available.” Lawal-Ahijo said.
He further noted the bank’s overall dedication to empowering informal sector workers and small and medium-scale enterprises (SMEs), adding, “Our goal is to bring banking closer to the people and support farmers, SMEs and households with accessible financial services that drive sustainable growth.”
In his remarks, a member of the Kebbi State House of Assembly representing Dandi Constituency, Dr. Abubakar Suleiman-Fana, said the new branch marked a significant step toward strengthening financial inclusion in rural communities.
“This is a milestone for our constituency. Financial inclusion is critical to rural development, and farmers, traders, and youths must take advantage of this opportunity to grow their businesses and improve their economic well-being,” he said.
Residents also expressed delight about the impact the new branch will have on their daily lives. A petty trader, Mrs. Hassana Abubakar, said she previously had to close her shop whenever she travelled to Birnin Kebbi for banking transactions.
“Now I can do my banking here without losing a whole day’s business. This will help my shop grow,” she said.
The opening of the Fidelity Bank branch in Kamba underscores the bank’s ongoing commitment to advancing financial inclusion, supporting rural economies and empowering farmers and small businesses across Nigeria.
Ranked among the best banks in Nigeria, Fidelity Bank Plc is a full-fledged Commercial Deposit Money Bank serving over 10 million customers through digital banking channels, its 255 business offices in Nigeria and United Kingdom subsidiary, FidBank UK Limited.
The Bank is a recipient of multiple local and international Awards, including the 2024 Excellence in Digital Transformation & MSME Banking Award by BusinessDay Banks and Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards; the 2024 Most Innovative Mobile Banking Application award for its Fidelity Mobile App by Global Business Outlook, and the 2024 Most Innovative Investment Banking Service Provider award by Global Brands Magazine.
Additionally, the Bank was recognized as the Best Bank for SMEs in Nigeria by the Euromoney Awards for Excellence and as the Export Financing Bank of the Year by the BusinessDay Banks and Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards.
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