*FirstBank, a premier financial institution in West Africa, announces the event holding October 14, 2026, in Lagos, will attract banking leaders, regulators, policymakers, industry experts, and key stakeholders to discuss the future of banking and financial services across the sub-region
Isola Moses | ConsumerConnect
FirstBank, West Africa’s premier financial institution and leading financial inclusion services provider, has announced sponsoring and hosting the West Africa International Banking Dialogue & Awards Gala 2026, holding October 14, 2026, in Lagos.
FirstBank disclosed this development in a statement issued Friday, October 9, 2026, in Lagos.
The leading Nigerian commercial bank also said the event would attract banking leaders, regulators, policymakers, industry experts and key stakeholders from across the region to discuss the future of banking and financial services in West Africa.
The bank also noted that discussions would focus on key issues shaping the industry, including digital transformation, financial inclusion, regulatory developments, sustainable finance and regional economic integration.
The statement revealed the forum would also celebrate FirstBank’s continued commitment to delivering value to its customers, reflected in its recent recognition as Best Retail Bank in Nigeria, Best SME Bank in Nigeria and Best SME Bank in Africa by The Asian Banker.
These recognitions further reinforce FirstBank’s longstanding record of excellence.
The Bank was named Best Retail Bank in Nigeria for the ninth time in 2025 and has consistently been recognised for its support of small and medium-sized enterprises, earning both Best SME Bank in Nigeria and Best SME Bank in Africa honours in consecutive years.
Speaking on the significance of the event, Olusegun Alebiosu, Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of FirstBank Group, said: “The West Africa International Banking Dialogue & Awards Gala provides a unique opportunity for industry leaders to engage in meaningful conversations that will shape the future of banking in our region.
“At FirstBank, we remain committed to driving innovation, financial inclusion, sustainable growth and stakeholder value creation.”
Alebiosu stated: “By hosting this important platform, we reaffirm our dedication to fostering strategic partnerships and advancing the banking industry’s contribution to economic development across Africa.
FirstBank further stated the West Africa International Banking Dialogue & Awards Gala 2026 would serve as a platform for leading voices across the banking ecosystem to exchange insights, explore emerging opportunities and identify collaborative solutions that will support the continued growth and transformation of financial services across West Africa.
By hosting the event, FirstBank reinforces its commitment to fostering industry collaboration, advancing financial inclusion and supporting initiatives that drive sustainable economic growth and shared prosperity across Africa.