...Strengthening Nigeria’s Digital Banking Revolution
First Bank of Nigeria Limited has inaugurated its fifth fully automated branch, the FirstBank Digital Xperience Centre, in Lekki, Lagos, reinforcing its leadership in digital banking innovation.
Situated on Admiralty Way, Lekki, the new branch joins four existing Digital Xperience Centres in Victoria Island, Banana Island (Lagos), University of Ibadan, and Wuse (Abuja), highlighting FirstBank’s commitment to reshaping financial services in Nigeria through technology-driven solutions.
A Milestone in Digital Transformation
At the launch event, FirstBank’s Chief Executive Officer, Olusegun Alebiosu, emphasized the importance of digitalisation in modern banking and reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to cutting-edge innovations that enhance customer experience and streamline banking transactions.
"The Digital Xperience Centre is a testament to our relentless drive for innovation. This fully automated branch aligns with global standards and offers customers a unique self-service experience. Technology has become the backbone of financial services, and as the landscape continues to evolve, so must we," Alebiosu stated.
Designed to provide state-of-the-art digital banking services, the branch enables customers to seamlessly navigate the digital financial ecosystem with ease and efficiency.
Advanced Features and AI-Powered Banking
The FirstBank Digital Xperience Centre is equipped with cutting-edge technology, ensuring a fast, secure, and convenient banking experience. Some of its key features include:
- AI-powered humanoid robots to assist customers with inquiries.
- Video banking for real-time consultations with relationship managers.
- Self-service kiosks for account management and transactions.
- Fast-tracking ATMs with smart screens for instant transactions.
- Instant account opening and card issuance on-site.
- AI-driven security features to prevent fraud and enhance transaction efficiency.
These innovations are designed to reduce wait times and allow customers to complete transactions in record time.
Enhancing Customer Convenience
FirstBank’s Executive Director of Retail Banking, South Directorate, Oluseyi Popoola Oyefeso, highlighted the centre’s convenience for customers who prefer quick, independent banking.
"A lot of people just want to get their business done and move on. That is why this is here—walk in, serve yourself, complete your transactions, and go your way."
Abimbola Kunle Ajayi, Group Head of Branch Operations and Services (Lagos and West), also emphasized the efficiency of the new centre, noting that transactions such as transfers, ATM withdrawals, card issuance, and cash deposits—which traditionally take 15-20 minutes—can now be completed in as little as two minutes.
“For customers, it is convenient. They are always delighted to complete transactions themselves rather than filling out forms and waiting in queues. This enhances the overall customer experience and strengthens our brand,” she explained.
Customer Adaptability and Future Expansion
Addressing concerns about customer adaptability to self-service banking, Ajayi assured that the systems are user-friendly and intuitive, with on-screen instructions that guide customers through the process effortlessly.
FirstBank inaugurated its first Digital Xperience Centre in 2021 on Adetokunbo Ademola Street, Victoria Island, Lagos. Subsequent branches were launched at:
- University of Ibadan – August 2023
- Abuja Wuse New Market – October 2023
- Banana Island, Lagos – March 2024
- Lekki, Lagos – March 2025
The Digital Xperience Centre initiative is part of FirstBank’s broader strategy to revolutionize banking in Nigeria, providing customers with access to world-class digital innovations and building confidence in digital financial solutions.
FirstBank’s Eco-Friendly Headquarters at Eko Atlantic City
In a parallel development, the Lagos State Government has granted FirstBank approval to construct its new eco-friendly headquarters in Eko Atlantic City. Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, presented the certificate of approval to First Holdco Chairman, Femi Otedola, during the groundbreaking ceremony.
The proposed 40-story edifice, set to become Nigeria’s tallest building, is described as a technological and environmental marvel. It will feature advanced, eco-friendly designs, setting a new benchmark for the financial services sector in Africa.
Pioneering the Future of Banking in Nigeria
With its latest fully automated digital branch in Lekki and a commitment to sustainable banking infrastructure, FirstBank continues to lead the digital transformation of Nigeria’s financial sector. The bank’s investments in AI-driven banking solutions and eco-friendly architecture position it at the forefront of innovation and customer-centric banking experiences.