Access Bank Plc has been recognised with two prestigious honours at the 2026 Global Good Governance (3G) Awards, reaffirming its leadership in corporate governance and sustainable community impact.
The Bank received the 3G Community Empowerment Award 2026 and 3G Best Corporate Governance Framework Award 2026
The awards, conferred by Cambridge IFA under the Global Good Governance Awards (3G Awards) platform, are based on rigorous, independent research and evaluation conducted throughout the nomination process.
The award ceremony was held on April 28, 2026, in Singapore, attracting over 300 high-level participants from more than 15 countries, including leaders from government, corporate organisations, and the social and philanthropic sectors. The event celebrated excellence in governance, sustainability, transparency, and social responsibility.
Mr. Eyitayo Olabode represented the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Roosevelt Ogbonna, at the ceremony, receiving the awards on behalf of the Bank.
Commenting on the recognition, Roosevelt Ogbonna, MD/CEO of Access Bank Plc, stated: “This recognition is a validation of Access Bank’s commitment to responsible leadership, strong governance structures, and inclusive growth. At Access Bank, we believe good governance is foundational to building trust, creating shared value, and driving sustainable development across our markets.
“These awards reflect the dedication of our people and our deliberate efforts to empower communities, embed transparency, and ensure accountability in all that we do. We remain committed to setting high standards that deliver longterm value for our stakeholders and the communities we serve.”
The 2026 programme also featured the Global Good Governance Summit and the launch of the Global Good Governance Report 2026, hosted by Dentons Rodyk, Singapore. Under the theme “AI Governance for the Prosperity of the People and the Planet,” the Summit provided a global platform for dialogue on governance, ethics, and sustainability.
Access Bank’s achievements underscore its consistent efforts to align corporate performance with social impact, reinforcing its commitment to responsible banking and long-term value creation.

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Union Bank of Nigeria’s Endless Possibilities campaign has won Bronze in the Heritage category at the 2026 Pitcher Awards, one of Africa’s foremost platforms for creative excellence.

The campaign was also shortlisted in the Craft category for Film Craft, a recognition of the artistry and technical quality behind the work. These recognitions were awarded following adjudication alongside qualifying entries from across the African continent.

The Heritage win carries a particular resonance. It recognises the bank’s ability to honour its rich heritage while maintaining relevance with contemporary audiences.

For more than a century, Union Bank has been woven into the fabric of Nigeria’s economic and social progress, and Endless Possibilities continues that story rather than departing from it.

Built to celebrate the ambition and resourcefulness of Nigerians who dream and create against the odds, the campaign mirrors the very qualities that have sustained the Bank across generations. To be honoured in a category defined by history, identity and cultural continuity, is to have that legacy recognised on a continental stage.

Commenting on the award, Olufunmilola Aluko, Chief Brand and Marketing Officer at Union Bank of Nigeria, said: “We are honoured to be recognised at the 2026 Pitcher Awards for Endless Possibilities. This achievement reflects our commitment to telling authentic stories that resonate with the Nigerian spirit and reinforce our promise to support the dreams and progress of the communities we serve. We are equally proud of the Film Craft shortlist, which speaks to the talent and collaboration behind the work.”

This recognition on the African stage, adds to Union Bank’s growing reputation for storytelling that is locally grounded and broadly resonant.

As the Bank deepens its connections with audiences across the country and continent, it remains committed to work that inspires confidence, possibility and progress.

About Union Bank of Nigeria Plc’s
Established in 1917, Union Bank is a leading provider of financial services in Nigeria, renowned for its “Simpler, Smarter Banking” philosophy. With a nationwide network and a strong focus on digital innovation, Union Bank continues to empower individuals, businesses, and the public sector to achieve lasting success.

The Bank is a trusted and recognisable brand with an extensive network of over 300 branches across Nigeria. The Bank offers a range of banking services to individual and corporate clients, including current, savings, and deposit account services, funds transfer, foreign currency domiciliation, loans, overdrafts, equipment leasing, and trade finance. The Bank also offers customers convenient electronic banking channels and products, including Online Banking, Mobile Banking, Debit Cards, ATMs, and POS Systems.
More information can be found at: www.unionbankng.com

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RC 7275937
ALPHA MORGAN BANK LIMITED
SUMMARY FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE 10 MONTHS PERIOD ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025
The Directors are pleased to present the summary financial information of Alpha Morgan Bank Limited for the 10 months period ended 31 December 2025. These summary financial information are
derived from the full financial statements for the period ended 31 December 2025, and are not the full financial statements of the Bank. The Bank’s Independent Auditors issued an unqualified audit
opinion on the full financial statements for the 10 months period ended 31 December 2025 from which these summary financial information were derived.
The full financial statements were approved by the Board of Directors on 27 March 2026 and signed on its behalf by:
Tope Smart
Chairman
FRC/2013/CIIN/000000001331
Ade Buraimo
Managing Director/CEO
FRC/2014/CIBN/00000006791
Wale Abdul
Chief Finance Officer
FRC/2024/PRO/ICAN/001/202879
ASSETS
TOTAL ASSETS
SUMMARY STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL
POSITION AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2025
INDEPENDENT AUDITORS’ REPORT ON SUMMARY FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
To the Shareholders of Alpha Morgan Bank Limited
Opinion
The summary financial statements of Alpha Morgan Bank Limited which comprise the
statement of financial position as at 31 December 2025, the summary statement of profit or
loss and other comprehensive income for the period then ended are derived from the audited
financial statements of Alpha Morgan Bank Limited for the period ended 31 December 2025.
In our opinion, the accompanying summary financial statements are consistent, in all material
respects, with the audited financial statements of Alpha Morgan Bank Limited, in accordance
with the requirements of Section 399 of the Companies and Allied Matters Act, 2020 for
abridged reports, Banks and Other Financial Institutions Act 2020 and the Financial Reporting
Council of Nigeria (Amendment) Act, 2023 as applicable to summary financial statements.
The Audited Financial Statements and Our Report Thereon
We expressed an unmodified audit opinion on those financial statements in our report dated
25 May 2026. That report also includes the communication of the key audit matter as described
in the auditor’s report on the financial statements.
Key audit matters are those matters that in our professional judgment, were of most
significance in our audit of the financial statements of the current period.
Joshua Ojo, FCA
FRC/2013/PRO/ICAN/001/00000000849
For: Deloitte & Touche
Lagos, Nigeria.
25 May 2026
Directors’ Responsibility for the Summary Financial Statements
The Directors are responsible for the preparation of the summary financial statements in
accordance with the requirements of Section 399 of the Companies and Allied Matters Act 2020,
as applicable to abridged reports, Banks and Other Financial Institution Act 2020, circulars and
guidelines issued by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the Financial Reporting Council of
Nigeria (Amendment) Act 2023 as applicable to summary financial statements.
The Companies and Allied Matters Act require abridged reports to be prepared in accordance
with the framework concepts and the measurement and recognition requirements of the IFRS
Accounting Standards as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board.
Auditors’ Responsibility for the Summary Financial Statements
Report on Other Legal and Regulatory Requirements
Our responsibility is to express an opinion on whether the summary financial statements are
consistent, in all material respects, with the audited financial statements based on our
procedures which were conducted in accordance with the International Standards on Auditing
(ISA) 810 (Revised), “Engagement to report on Summary Financial Statements”.
The Bank complied with the Fifth Schedule of the Companies and Allied Matters Act, 2020.
In accordance with circular BSD/1/2004 issued by the Central Bank of Nigeria, details of insider
related credits are as disclosed in the notes to the financial statements.
Summary Financial Statements
The summary financial statements do not contain all the disclosures required by the IFRS
Accounting Standards as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board, Banks and
Other Financial Institution Act 2020, circulars and guidelines issued by the Central Bank of
Nigeria (CBN), the Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria (Amendment) Act, 2023 and the
requirements of the Companies and Allied Matters Act, 2020 as applicable to annual financial
statements. Reading the summary financial statements and the auditor’s report thereon,
therefore, it is not a substitute for reading the audited financial statements of Alpha Morgan
Bank Limited and the auditor’s report thereon. The summary financial statements and the
audited financial statements do not reflect the effect of events that occurred subsequent to the
date of our report on the audited financial statements.
Cash and balances with Central Bank of Nigeria
in thousands of Nigerian Naira
Due from banks
Pledged assets
Loans and advances to customers
Investments in securities:
– Debt instruments at fair value through other comprehensive income
– Debt instruments at amortised cost
Other assets
Property, plant and equipment
Right-of-use asset
Intangible assets
160,433,751
2,467,410
106,424,258
1,623,252
10,104,272
93,651
10,852,323
5,951,857
18,143,426
401,866
4,371,436
LIABILITIES
TOTAL LIABILITIES
Deposits from customers
Current income tax payable
Other liabilities
Deposit for shares
Lease liability
Provisions
Deferred tax liabilities
136,771,504
103,058,189
432,913
403,000
32,400,052
150,698
1,062
325,590
EQUITY
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND EQUITY
Share Capital
Retained earnings
Fair value reserve
Statutory reserve
Total equity attributable to owners
160,433,751
22,000,000
743,058
AGSMEIS earnings 57,159
519,080
342,950
23,662,247
31-DEC-2025
SUMMARY STATEMENT OF PROFIT OR LOSS AND OTHER COMPREHENSIVE
INCOME FOR THE 10 MONTHS PERIOD ENDED AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2025
Interest income using effective interest rate
in thousands of Nigerian Naira
Interest expense using effective interest rate
Net interest income
Fee and commission income
Fee and commission expense
Net fee and commission income
Other operating income
Operating income
Impairment loss on financial instruments
Net operating income after impairment loss
Personnel expenses
Other operating expenses
10,301,812
(3,433,103)
6,868,709
2,521,690
2,563,893
(42,203)
232,715
9,623,114
(213,574)
9,409,540
(1,854,276)
(4,555,326)
Depreciation and amortisation
Total expenses
Profit before income tax
Income tax expense
Profit for the period
Other Comprehensive Income/(loss):
Item that may not be reclassified subsequently to profit or loss
(1,098,269)
(7,507,871)
1,901,669
(758,503)
1,143,166
Items that may be reclassified to profit or loss, net of tax
Other comprehensive income, net of tax:
Total other comprehensive (loss)/income for the period
Earnings per share
1,143,166
–
–
5.2k
31-DEC-2025
(10 months)
Below is a breakdown of complaints received and resolved by the Bank during the period 31 December 2025
pursuant to CBN circular dated 16 August 2011.
Description Number
– – –
194 2,675,511 2,128,326
194 – –
(194) – –
– – –
– – –
Amounts Claimed Amounts Refunded
Pending complaints brought forward
Received complaints
Total complaints
Resolved complaints
Unresolved complaints escalated to CBN for Intervention
Unresolved complaints pending with the bank
carried forward

Alpha Morgan Bank has announced a landmark financial performance, recording Profit Before Tax of N1.9 billion in just 10 months of operations, a result that stands as a major milestone in Nigeria’s banking industry and reinforces the Bank’s emergence as one of the country’s most remarkable new-generation financial institutions.

With this performance, Alpha Morgan Bank did not only break-even within an exceptionally short period, but also delivered what is believed to be a record-setting early-profit performance in the Nigerian banking sector, underlining the strength of its strategy, the discipline of its execution and the confidence the market has placed in its business model.

The Bank’s strong debut performance was supported by robust growth across key financial and operating indicators. Highlights of the 10-month financial statement include customer deposit of over ₦103BN, gross earning of ₦13.1 billion, net interest margin of 67%, non-performing loan ratio of 0%.

The performance was driven largely by strong synergy in customer acquisition and branch expansion, a deliberate focus on growth in demand deposits, creation of quality risk assets and balance sheet efficiency. These achievements were further supported by robust operational processes powered by sound technology and systems, management depth and expertise, experience and strategic oversight provided by the Bank’s Board.

Speaking on the performance, the Managing Director, Ade Buraimo, described the result as a significant validation of the Bank’s vision, business model and execution capacity.

“This is more than a financial milestone; it is a strong statement of what is possible when vision, discipline, sound execution, and market opportunity come together. From inception, Alpha Morgan Bank was built to be a commercial bank that is solution-driven and committed to delivering value at scale. To record a PBT of N1.9 billion in our first 10 months of operations is both historic and deeply encouraging. It reflects the dedication of our people, the trust of our customers and the solid foundation we have laid for long-term growth.”

About Alpha Morgan Bank

Alpha Morgan Bank is a customer-centric, innovative, and solutions-driven commercial bank, with a clear commitment to delivering “Satisfying Banking.”

Alpha Morgan Bank commenced operations in March 2025 with the rare distinction of regulatory approval for 14 branches across the country. This early footprint, combined with disciplined market execution, has enabled the Bank to build momentum across key business segments in record time.

Alpha Morgan Bank focuses on:

Human-Centred Technology: Digital tools designed for intuitive, everyday relevance and not vanity metrics.
Transparent Operations: From pricing to service promises, every process is clear, accountable, and customer friendly.
Customer-Centric Innovation: Continuously developing solutions and services driven by customer insights to deliver meaningful value and enhance satisfaction.
More than a financial institution, Alpha Morgan Bank positions itself as a partner in progress. Its vision is to drive possibilities, enable dreams, and reemphasize what it means to experience Satisfying Banking in Nigeria.

More about Alpha Morgan Bank on www.alphamorganbank.com

—

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L – R: The Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, represented by the Honourable Commissioner for Finance, Mr. Abayomi Oluyomi; Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, FidBank UK Ltd, Mr. Johnson Ememandu; Chairman, Fidelity Bank Plc, Mrs. Amaka Onwughalu; British Deputy High Commissioner in Lagos, Mr. Jonny Baxter; and Chairman, FidBank UK Ltd and Chief Executive Officer, Fidelity Bank Plc, Dr. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe; at the FidBank UK Ltd exclusive product showcase held at the British Deputy High Commissioner’s residence in Lagos recently.

Leading financial institution, Fidelity Bank Plc’s international subsidiary, FidBank UK Limited, has announced a commitment to support Nigerians – both individuals and corporations – in acquiring properties in the United Kingdom.

Fidbank UK which provides a comprehensive suite of financial services, including trade finance, personal and business banking, treasury services, commercial lending, and private banking, is set to deliver tailored financial solutions for high-net-worth individuals (HNIs) seeking to invest in the UK real estate market through its FidBank Buy-to-Let product.

This announcement was made at an exclusive product showcase hosted by the British Deputy High Commissioner, Mr. Jonny Baxter at his Residence in Lagos on Tuesday, 26 May 2026. The event was attended by a select audience comprising captains of industry and corporate leaders.

Highlighting the significance of the event, the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of FidBank UK Ltd, Mr. Johnson Enemadu, said:

“This event is about showcasing to the market and our customers that there is something exciting in the market and we are able to take them along in this journey, supporting their businesses by bringing capital both in the financial institutions and corporate space and also for our high networth inidividuals. It is a total experience.

“Today’s event is also taking place against the backdrop of strengthened bilateral relations between Nigeria and the United Kingdom, highlighted by the recent state visit of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to the UK. This renewed engagement between both countries continues to unlock new pathways for trade, investment, and financial collaboration; and FidBank UK is pleased to play a leading role in driving this.”

In his welcome remarks, the British Deputy High Commissioner in Lagos, Mr. Jonny Baxter said:

“The United Kingdom remains firmly committed to deepening its economic partnership with Nigeria, with a clear focus on driving inclusive, sustainable investment, trade and economic growth. London’s position as a leading global financial centre is central to this, supported by robust financial infrastructure that enables efficient trade flows and seamless cross-border transactions between our markets.

It is therefore encouraging to see institutions such as FidBank UK advancing financial service offerings that not only expand investment opportunities in the UK, but also strengthen the financial systems supporting growing commercial ties. We welcome and support efforts that continue to enhance liquidity, facilitate trade, and drive sustainable UK-Nigeria economic connections.”

The well-attended event also featured art exhibitions by two of Nigeria’s leading visual art talents -Femi Morakinyo and Oswald Chukwunyeremugo – who displayed their latest works to the admiration of the guests.

Also speaking at the event, the Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, represented by the Honourable Commissioner for Finance, Mr. Abayomi Oluyomi, lauded the initiative as it aligned with the administration’s T.H.E.M.E.S. Agenda, saying:

“FidBank UK offers a private banking relationship grounded in regulatory rigour and institutional trust. This is not a catalogue of products, it is a comprehensive financial architecture built for people who live, work and invest across the Nigerian-UK corridor”.

Operating from the heart of the City of London since 1983, FidBank UK provides a comprehensive range of banking services to customers doing business from and into Nigeria and other West African countries, including trade finance, personal banking, business banking, treasury services, commercial lending and private banking.

The bank is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and Prudential Regulation Authority and subscribe to the Financial Services Compensation Scheme.

The post FidBank UK Broadens Investment Pathways for Nigerians into the UK Market appeared first on Insight Global News.

At Wema Bank, we have spent the last few years reimagining what Children’s Day can look like for Nigerian children.

What started as a celebration has evolved into an intentional platform designed to build confidence, encourage leadership, promote financial literacy and create meaningful opportunities for children across different age groups.This year, we have raised the bar even higher.

At Wema Bank’s Children’s Day Special Event held on Monday, May 25, 2026, our One-Day MD/CEO, Chinmamanda Diamond Ozoakpata, used her first official act in office to unveil a series of new initiatives designed to reward, educate and empower children through our Royal Kiddies account and ALAT Xplore platform.

From year-long cash rewards and celebrations of academic excellence to financial literacy materials and STEM challenges, here are the new incentives that were announced and how to qualify:1. Birthday Cash Gift (Royal Kiddies Account Holders)Wema bank is putting real money behind milestone birthdays. Active Royal Kiddies account holders turning 5 will receive ₦5,000, while those turning 10 will receive ₦10,000 automatically, as a birthday cash gift. The initiative runs from May 2026 to May 2027.

Importantly, active account holders who already turned 5 or 10 before May 2026 this year will also receive their reward this month.To qualify: Your child must hold an active Royal Kiddies account and be turning (or have turned) age 5 or 10 within the qualifying window.2. ₦100,000 Reward for Top Common Entrance Students (Royal Kiddies Account Holders)In a move that directly ties financial reward to academic achievement, Wema Bank will reward the top 100 students in the National Common Entrance Examination (NCEE) with ₦100,000 each. This initiative commences in June 2026.To qualify:

Your child must be among the top 100 performers in the NCEE and hold a Royal Kiddies account.3. Financial Literacy Book Launch – Money Adventures (Royal Kiddies Account Holders)Wema Bank officially launched Money Adventures, a financial literacy book created for children aged 6 and above, at the Children’s Day event.

Designed to make money conversations simpler and more engaging for young readers, the book introduces children to foundational concepts around saving, money management and responsible financial habits in a fun, age-appropriate way. To qualify: To receive a copy of this book, your child must hold an active Royal Kiddies account or have their Royal Kiddies account newly activated.4. Evolve School Tour STEM Challenge (ALAT Xplore Account Holders)The Bank also unveiled the Evolve School Tour STEM Challenge. Designed for secondary school students aged 13–17, the programme will run across six schools nationwide with existing STEM programmes. Through hands-on STEM competitions and school engagements, the initiative aims to promote innovation, technology awareness, financial literacy and responsible savings culture.

There will also be monetary prizes to be won at the end of the challenge.To qualify: Your child must be an ALAT Xplore customer, aged 13–17, and attend one of the participating schools with an active STEM programme.Over the last four years, Wema Bank has consistently treated Children’s Day as more than a calendar moment. From the One-Day MD/CEO initiative to school tours, leadership experiences and child-focused financial literacy campaigns, the Bank has continued to expand how it supports children meaningfully.

Yet, this is the first time  the bank has included a Children’s Day initiative that runs for an entire year. Combine that with a six-figure academic reward, a published financial literacy resource, and a nationwide school tour, and it becomes clear: this is the most comprehensive, most impactful package of benefits Wema Bank has ever delivered to its youngest customers.

It signals a growing commitment by Wema Bank to create experiences for children that extend far beyond celebration and leave a lasting impact long after Children’s Day is over.

The post Wema Bank’s One-Day MD/CEO, Chinmamanda Ozoakpata, Unveils New Benefits for Children appeared first on Insight Global News.

There is a particular genre of financial commentary that mistakes legal process for
a factual verdict. A court delivers a first-instance ruling, procedural questions are
raised, and before the ink is dry on the appeal filing, the narrative has already
hardened: the regulator overreached, investor confidence is shattered, and
Nigeria’s financial governance is on trial before the world. Much of the
commentary currently circulating about Union Bank of Nigeria belongs to that
genre. It is not without merit on certain procedural questions. But it is, at its core,
incomplete — and incompleteness in financial journalism carries costs that run
well beyond the column.
The Acquisition That Started Everything
In 2022, Titan Trust Bank Limited, then chaired by Mr Tunde Lemo, acquired
approximately 94 per cent of Union Bank of Nigeria through two Dubai-registered
entities: Luxis International DMCC, promoted by Mr Rahul Savara, and Mr
Cornelius Vink’s Magna International DMCC, both linked to the Tropical General
Investments (TGI) Group. The US$300 million transaction was financed
predominantly through an Afreximbank facility. The CBN’s policy is unambiguous:
borrowed funds may not be used to acquire shares in a licensed financial
institution. That principle exists because debt-funded acquisitions hollow out the
very capital base they purport to build.
That is precisely what happened. A forensic audit found that the Afreximbank loan
was ultimately reflected in Union Bank’s own books, with no hedging
arrangements against naira depreciation. As the currency weakened, revaluation
losses intensified, the capital adequacy ratio deteriorated into negative territory,
non-performing loan exposure increased significantly, and a substantial capital
shortfall emerged. Critically, as stated in the Bank’s own Notice of Appeal, a
special examination was conducted, and its findings were formally presented to
former Managing Director Mudassir Amray and the board then chaired by Farouk
Gumel, who were confronted with the institution’s grave financial condition and
continuing regulatory infractions. The claim that the CBN acted without evidence
before dissolving the board is, on the record, simply not accurate.
The Legal Picture
The CBN acted under Section 34 of BOFIA 2020 and Section 52 of the CBN Act
2007 — broad discretionary executive powers that do not require a special
examination as a condition precedent. The Federal High Court’s characterisation
of those powers as quasi-judicial is itself among the central questions now on
appeal. Both the CBN and Union Bank have filed formal appeals. Union Bank’s
own Notice of Appeal, filed the day after judgment on thirteen grounds and argued
by Olaniwun Ajayi LP, challenges the ruling on several fronts: that the
respondents may never have had locus standi to sue in the first place, under the
rule in Foss v. Harbottle; that the application was filed nearly two years after the
January 2024 events, well outside the prescribed three-month limitation window;
and that the CBN-supervised recapitalisation exercise, mandated under Section 9
of BOFIA, cannot constitute evidence of bad faith. These are not technicalities.
They are substantive questions of law that the Court of Appeal must now
determine.The Human Stakes and the Real Question
Behind the legal arguments sit approximately 7.8 million depositors and around
6,450 employees across 281 branches. Union Bank’s own affidavit describes it as a
systemically important institution in a precarious financial situation, continuing to
rely on CBN forbearance for its existence — a frank admission that validates,
rather than undermines, the case for intervention. Meanwhile, critics argue the
dispute damages investor confidence. The wider evidence does not support that
conclusion. By April 2026, thirty-three Nigerian banks had raised N4.65 trillion
under the CBN’s recapitalisation framework — over ten times the 2004 to 2005
consolidation figure. The Nigerian Exchange All-Share Index rose approximately
29 per cent in the first quarter of 2026 alone. The market has read the CBN’s
resolve as stability, not recklessness. Conflating this case with a systemic
confidence crisis runs the risk of misleading the very international investors the
commentary claims to be protecting.
The structural vulnerability at the centre of this dispute originates not with the
regulator but with an acquisition financed with borrowed funds, loaded onto the
acquired institution’s balance sheet, and left unhedged against exchange-rate
risk. When the CBN stepped in, it was doing what central banks everywhere are
expected to do. When Union Bank’s own legally constituted board subsequently
filed its own appeal, it was signalling what a properly constituted governance
structure recognises as being in the institution’s best interests. Nigeria’s
appellate courts — not the court of commentary — are the appropriate arena for
resolution.
Union Bank of Nigeria is a 109-year-old institution serving nearly eight million
depositors. It is not being dismantled. It is being stabilised under active regulatory
supervision, with operations intact and depositors protected. In the language of
institutional governance, that is called stewardship. The commentary that
mistakes it for anything else does the institution, its depositors, and Nigeria’s
financial governance narrative a disservice that will outlast the headlines.

*Bala Rabiu, writes from Kano

The post Stewardship, Not Seizure: What Union Bank Case Is Really About appeared first on Insight Global News.

L-R: Team Lead, Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), Fidelity Bank Plc, Victoria Abuka; Personal Assistant to the President on Constituency Affairs, Hon. Khadijat Kareem Omotayo; Branch Leader, Adeola Odeku Branch, Fidelity Bank Plc, Ifeyinwa Asomugha; Surulere Local Government Executive, Anthonia Adenike Adjivon; and First Vice Chairman, Community Development Committee (CDC), Surulere Local Government, Adebayo Odukoya; during the Fidelity Food Bank outreach in Surulere, Lagos recently.

Leading financial institution, Fidelity Bank Plc, has reinforced its commitment to community welfare and sustainable development with the distribution of food packs to over 1,500 residents in Surulere, Lagos state.

The outreach, executed under the Bank’s Fidelity Food Bank initiative, was carried out in partnership with the Office of the Personal Assistant to the President on Constituency Affairs and the Sodiq Abiodun Ogundare (SAO) Foundation.

Speaking during the event, Regional Bank Head, Victoria Island/Lekki, Fidelity Bank Plc, Nnamdi Edekobi, represented by the Branch Leader, Adeola Odeku Branch, Fidelity Bank Plc, Ifeyinwa Asomugha, described the initiative as a reflection of Fidelity Bank’s unwavering dedication to improving the wellbeing of its host communities.

“Today goes beyond the distribution of food items; it is about uplifting lives, creating opportunities, and strengthening our commitment to the wellbeing of families in this community.” he said.

He disclosed that since inception, the initiative has distributed more than 150,000 food packs across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones, positively impacting hundreds of communities nationwide.

“Today’s outreach has provided over 1,500 beneficiaries with essential feeding supplies that will help address hunger, support healthy living, and improve the overall wellbeing of families. This initiative also aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 2, which focuses on achieving Zero Hunger,” he added.

Edekobi further commended the Personal Assistant to the President on Constituency Affairs, Hon. Khadijat Kareem Omotayo for supporting the initiative and fostering impactful partnerships that benefit underserved communities.

Also speaking at the event, Hon. Khadijat Kareem Omotayo praised Fidelity Bank and the SAO Foundation for bringing meaningful support to residents of Surulere.

“I am very happy that the foundation is growing. Fidelity Bank are our people and I appreciate this collaboration that has brought this massive opportunity to our people in Surulere Constituency 1,” she stated.

She expressed optimism about sustaining future partnerships with the Bank to continue improving the lives and livelihoods of Nigerians.

It would be recalled that the bank was recently recognized as the CSR Champion of the year at the 2025 Independent Newspaper Awards for its Food Bank initiative. The outreach to Surulere continues a legacy of impact, attracting community leaders, residents, and food bank partners, many of whom described the intervention as a timely boost amid prevailing economic challenges.

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.

The post Fidelity Bank Extends Food Bank Initiative to Thousands in Surulere appeared first on Insight Global News.

…Group Profit rises 89% in FY2025, 53% in Q1 2026

Sterling Financial Holdings Company Plc (“Sterling Financial” or “the
Group”) has announced its audited financial results for the year ended December 31,
2025, alongside its unaudited results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2026,
delivering strong earnings growth, balance sheet expansion, and improved capital
strength across the Group.

According to statement by Group CFO, Sterling Financial Holdings Company PLC, Adebimpe Olambiwonnu, Gross Earnings for FY2025 increased by 44.4% to ₦486.8 billion, representing the strongest performance in the Group’s modern history. Profit Before Tax rose by 89.2% to ₦86.8 billion, while Profit After Tax increased by 74.8% to ₦76.3 billion.

The Group’s balance sheet also strengthened significantly during the year. Total Assets reached ₦3.91 trillion, Customer Deposits grew to ₦2.98 trillion, and Loans and Advances closed at ₦1.41 trillion while Shareholders’ Funds expanded by 40.5% to ₦428.7 billion.

Sterling Financial sustained this momentum into the first quarter of 2026, with Total
Assets crossing the ₦4 trillion threshold for the first time, reaching ₦4.07 trillion.

Gross Earnings for Q1 2026 rose by 41.6% year-on-year to ₦134.8 billion, supported by
a 36.8% increase in Net Interest Income to ₦64.9 billion.

Operating income reached ₦93.4 billion during the quarter, while Profit Before Tax
increased by 52.8% to ₦27.9 billion and Profit After Tax rose to ₦23.4 billion.
Shareholders’ Funds strengthened further to ₦542.5 billion following the successful
completion of the Group’s recapitalisation programme.

Commenting on the Group’s performance, Yemi Odubiyi, Group Managing Director
of Sterling Financial Holdings Company Plc, said: “Our FY2025 and Q1 2026 results reflect continued growth across the Group’s core businesses, supported by disciplined execution, improved operating efficiency, and a strengthened capital position.
The successful completion of our recapitalisation programme positions the Group for the next phase of growth across our commercial banking, non-interest banking, and wealth-management businesses. We remain focused on sustaining growth, strengthening our balance sheet and delivering long-term value across our diversified platform.”

This period represents an important phase in Sterling Financial’s evolution, as the
continued growth of Sterling Bank and The Alternative Bank, alongside the expansion
of SterlingFI Wealth Management, positioned the Group to compete across multiple segments under a unified Group structure and shared strategic agenda.

The Group enters the rest of 2026 with stronger capital, expanded operating capacity and continued momentum across its banking and wealth-management businesses.

ABOUT STERLING FINANCIAL HOLDINGS COMPANY
Sterling Financial Holdings Company PLC (Sterling Financial) is a leading Nigerian financial services group committed to enriching lives through innovation and impact. It’s diversified portfolio includes Sterling Bank Limited, The Alternative Bank Limited and SterlingFI WealthManagement among other businesses.

As a holding company, Sterling provides strategic direction, governance, and shared
capabilities across its subsidiaries, enabling each to focus on its core mandate while benefiting from group-wide expertise, technology, and oversight.

With a heritage of trust built over six decades, Sterling Financial is committed to financial innovation, advancing inclusion, and shaping sustainable growth in Nigeria’s economy. The group continues to champion customer-focused solutions and socially responsible initiatives while creating long-term value for shareholders, employees and the communities it serves.

The post Sterling Financial Holdings Sustains Growth Momentum as Assets Cross ₦4 Trillion Mark in Q1, 2026 appeared first on Insight Global News.

Picture this: it is payday, and you need to transfer money to a loved one or pay a utility bill. In the past, that meant rushing to the bank, standing in long queues, and hoping you’d finish before closing time. For many Nigerians, this was the reality: time-consuming, stressful, and inconvenient.

But times have changed. In today’s digital era, mobile banking has become more than a convenience, it is a necessity. With mobile banking apps, you can manage your finances securely, instantly, and from anywhere.

That’s where FirstMobile, FirstBank’s official mobile app, comes in. Designed with customers in mind, it transforms your smartphone into a personal bank branch. Whether you are checking balances, transferring funds or paying bills, FirstMobile makes banking seamless and accessible.

With FirstMobile, the story shifts from waiting in line to managing your money on the go. It’s banking without boundaries, right in your pocket.

Why Mobile Banking Matters

Convenience: Access your account anytime, anywhere.
Security: Transactions are protected with PINs, OTPs, and biometric authentication.
Efficiency: Skip the branch visits. Check balances, transfer funds, and pay bills instantly.
Real-time updates: Get instant notifications for account activities.
Comprehensive services: Manage beneficiaries, monitor transactions, and stay in control of your finances.

How to Download and Activate FirstMobile

Search for FirstMobile on your Google Play Store or Apple App Store
Install the app and click Get Started.
Select Register Profile.
Choose your registration option: Debit Card or BVN.
Input your FirstBank ATM card number or BVN as required.
You will receive a One-Time Password (OTP) via SMS.
Enter the OTP in the app to verify your identity.
Set a five-digit mPIN (your login PIN).
Choose and answer two secret questions.
Create a four-digit transaction PIN for authorizing transactions.
Follow the prompts to finalize setup.

Once complete, you are ready to enjoy FirstBank’s mobile services.

Mobile banking is no longer optional; it’s the smarter way to bank. With FirstMobile, FirstBank has made it easy for customers to stay connected to their finances, securely and conveniently. Whether you are checking balances, paying bills, or transferring money, the app ensures you are always in control.

The post FirstMobile: How to Install , Register for FirstBank’s Mobile App appeared first on Insight Global News.

Union Bank of Nigeria has reaffirmed its reputation as a strong supporter of Nigerian businesses, receiving the Best SME Growth Banking Initiatives Award for 2025 from the Association of Small Business Owners of Nigeria (ASBON) at the Nigeria National SME Business Awards, held recently in Lagos.
The award was presented to the Bank in recognition of its strategic leadership in advancing the growth and resilience of small and medium-sized enterprises, through a differentiated suite of solutions designed to enable business expansion and long-term value creation.
Receiving the award on behalf of the Bank, Ayokunnumi Abraham, Head of SME Segment at Union Bank, described the recognition as a strong endorsement of the Bank’s commitment to supporting small and medium-sized businesses. He said:
“We are honoured to receive this recognition, which reflects Union Bank’s continued commitment to helping SMEs grow by making banking simpler, faster, and more accessible. Through enhancements to our specialised platforms such as Union360, we have meaningfully reduced the time it takes for businesses to come on board and begin transacting. These improvements have shortened onboarding, increased digital adoption among our SME customers, and supported the acquisition of new business clients. Our focus remains on delivering practical solutions that help Nigerian businesses thrive.”
Organised by ASBON in partnership with the Lagos State Government through the Ministry of Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade and Investment, the event convened stakeholders from the public and private sectors to recognise individuals and organisations driving meaningful impact across Nigeria’s SME ecosystem.
Union Bank remains focused on deepening its support for SMEs through customer-led solutions and processes that strengthen business growth across the ecosystem.

About Union Bank of Nigeria Plc’s

Established in 1917, Union Bank is a leading provider of financial services in Nigeria, renowned for its “Simpler, Smarter Banking” philosophy. With a nationwide network and a strong focus on digital innovation, Union Bank continues to empower individuals, businesses, and the public sector to achieve lasting success.
The Bank is a trusted and recognisable brand with an extensive network of over 300 branches across Nigeria. The Bank offers a range of banking services to individual and corporate clients, including current, savings, and deposit account services, funds transfer, foreign currency domiciliation, loans, overdrafts, equipment leasing, and trade finance. The Bank also offers customers convenient electronic banking channels and products, including Online Banking, Mobile Banking, Debit Cards, ATMs, and POS Systems.
More information can be found at: www.unionbankng.com

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