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FirstBank: Leveraging Digital Banking Solutions For Excellent Performance

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FirstBank Headquarter - Investors King

In First Bank of Nigeria Limited, virtually all the indices are looking bright. From a stellar performance in its last year and first quarter of 2022 operations to the unleashing of its robust digital banking solutions in its operations, analysts say its current management deserves accolades for preparing the bank for the challenges and changing needs in the emerging dispensation in the Nigerian banking industry.

As competition mounts in the ever-changing Nigerian banking landscape, analysts said the future of the industry will be determined by the speed and readiness of the operators to navigate their institutions to meet the changing dynamics in the taste and needs of consumers of banking products and services.

This is because as the Nigerian economy undergoes different levels of transformation and challenges evident in the shrinkage of the citizens’ purchasing power, and the narrowing of their choices, bank customers, as well as investors in the banking stocks, will naturally gravitate to any of the banks which has what it takes to meet their needs.

In the consideration of the above-painted scenario, analysts believe the cap fits First Bank of Nigeria Limited, the banking arm of the FBNHoldings, perfectly.

In the last few weeks, FirstBank has remained in the news as a result of its impressive performance in its 2001 full-year operation, a feat which it effortlessly repeated in the first-quarter results.

And like an institution that is committed to staying put at the top of the ladder, the bank is sticking to its commitment to be the darling of Nigerian bank customers through its resolve to leverage its digital banking solutions by moving from a dependence on branches for doing business to digital banking for excellent performance.

The result of this bold move is the unprecedented surge in the number of customer accounts from 10 million to 36 million in a few years.

Shift to Digital Architecture:

FirstBank had over the years taken advantage of its geographical footprints. A report by the Lagos-based research firm, Financial Derivatives Company Limited, noted that at one point in time, FirstBank had over 25% of total bank branches in Nigeria. Leveraging on the economies of scale, today, First Bank has made a mental shift from relying on its branches for doing business to a greater emphasis on its digital architecture. In the digital space, First Bank is not only a fierce competitor but a winning institution.

There is no doubt that the Nigerian oldest bank is well-positioned to deepen its penetration in the information technology space through its wide branch network (deposit and loan portfolio of N6.13trillion and N4.03 trillion respectively).

With its e-banking products and services, customers can pay bills, send/receive money, monitor every transaction on their account, make cashless purchases online or in person, and much more. All these can be done on an internet-enabled mobile phone, PC, or tablet, from wherever you are in the world.

The FDC report explained that despite the intense competition faced by Nigerian banks from fintech and telecommunication operators, First Bank of Nigeria Limited remains competitive in the digital banking space with increased customer acquisition from 10 million to 36 million in a few years. Also, the group has a robust retail banking franchise; comprising over 3,000 configured terminals and over 15,000 points of sale (POS) terminals, an agency banking network, as well an internet and mobile banking platform.

Banking on Well-structured Management:

Analysts are also of the opinion that the story about the impressive performance of First Bank, especially in the recent time cannot be complete without a chapter on the unique style of the current management which has been able to navigate the bank towards the path of sustained profitability and acceptance by the banking community.

For instance, analysts from FDC maintained that “The era of an experienced and well-structured management team signifies a continued restructuring of the bank’s operations and the gigantic return to profitability of a previously crippling giant.”

The research firm noted that the bank’s international presence gives it an edge and serves as a buffer against currency weakness, political challenges, and macroeconomic vulnerabilities.

Today, the reality is that the bank which was formerly plagued with bad credit decisions, significant non-performing loans, and poor corporate governance practices has taken drastic steps to tackle these worrisome issues and re-establish itself as a formidable force in the Nigerian banking space.

This new identity can be tied to a restructuring exercise that improved corporate governance, asset quality, and shareholders’ value.

Season of Stellar Performance

Impressively, the bank sustained this positive performance by recording a 32% increase in gross earnings to N180bn in Q1’22 from N136.6bn in Q1’21. Profit after tax was up 108% to N32.4billion (Q1’22) relative to N15.6 billion (Q1’21).

This stellar performance is attributable to a robust loan portfolio, effective cost structure, and increased digital services.

As a result of First Bank’s restructuring exercise, the bank reported a huge sum of N141 billion as loan recovery from previously written off Atlantic Energy Ltd loan in 2021. This exercise bolstered a 100% bottom-line growth in the period under review.

In the period, FirstBank Limited recorded gross earnings of N170.4 billion, up by 33 per cent as against N128.1billion in the previous year. The bank’s net interest income was put at N72.9 billion, a 42.1 per cent from N51.3 billion generated in the same period of 2021, while non-interest income was N58.8 billion, up by 21.7 per cent from the 2021 figure.

To show the bank was in a serious business of lending, its customers’ loans and advances (net) totaled N2.999 trillion, up by 5.8 per cent, year-to-date as of December 2021, which was put at N2.835 trillion, while customers’ deposits were N5.9 trillion, as against N5.6 trillion in the first quarter of 2021, a 5.4 per cent increase.

In a ranking conducted by Nairametrics for instance, FirstBank ranked number one among banks reviewed as far as cost to income ratio was concerned. The bank recorded the highest decline in its cost-to-income ratio in Q1 2022, dropping from 79.5% recorded in Q1 2021 to 67.03% in the review period.

The cost-to-income ratio is a key financial metric, which shows a company’s costs as a proportion of its income. It helps to give investors a clear view of how efficiently a bank is being run. Specifically, it shows how much input the bank requires to generate N1 of output.

Notably, the lower this ratio, the more profitable, productive, and competitive the bank will be. Here are the banks with the lowest cost-to-income ratio.

Commitment to Greater Profitability:

The Chief Executive Officer of the bank, Dr. Adesola Adeduntan, expressed the resolve of the management of the bank to use the current good performance to make its drive for profitability a permanent thing. He said, “At FirstBank, we have historically been interwoven with the fabric of this nation with a full-service commercial banking offering catering to every segment of the economy. We believe we are now in a good position to translate this unique revenue-generating potential into improved bottom-line performance.

“Our first-quarter results demonstrate that we have commenced our journey of Quantum Profitability Leap in earnest with profit before tax doubling to N34.1 billion as the Bank begins to reap the dividends of the successful restructuring of its balance sheet, revamped risk management, robust technology, and innovative service offerings.”

Adeduntan stressed the determination of the management of the bank to explore the potential of FirstBank’s large network in consolidating the current impressive runs.

“Looking ahead, we will continue to maximise all opportunities presented by our large network, and support our customers with innovative value-adding solutions through these uncertain times while investing in strengthening our digital banking offerings to deliver a better customer experience.”

Recognised Brand.

Interestingly, these huge investments in digital technology are not going unnoticed by the industry’s observers. And in 2022 alone, FirstBank has won two awards: Best Bank in Nigeria 2022 and Best Banking Digital Transformation Nigeria at the International Investor Awards 2022, a print and online publication.

The organiser explained that the bank was recognised with the Best Bank in Nigeria 2022 award for its leadership role in promoting financial inclusion in Nigeria which has been integral to improving lives and stimulating businesses of individuals across the country.

Also, the Best Bank in Digital Transformation was awarded to FirstBank in recognition of its continued efforts at reinventing its digital banking channels which have been central to reinforcing the Bank’s leading role in promoting a cashless society in the country whilst putting customers at an advantage in enjoying a secured and seamless digital banking experiences. The Bank’s digital banking channels include; its recently unveiled fully automated branch (FirstBank Digital Experience Centre), *894# USSD banking, FirstMobile, First online, and WhatsApp banking amongst others.

With over 750 business locations and over 170,000 Banking Agents spread across 99% of the 774 Local Government Areas in Nigeria, FirstBank provides a comprehensive range of retail and corporate financial services to serve its over 30 million customers. The Bank has an international presence through its subsidiaries, FBNBank (UK) Limited in London and Paris, FBNBank in the Republic of Congo, Ghana, The Gambia, Guinea, Sierra Leone, and Senegal, as well as a Representative Office in Beijing.

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Banking Sector

FBN Holdings To Invest N103.1bn In Corporate, Retail Businesses

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FBN Holdings

As part of means of actualizing its expectation of raising N150 billion from its existing shareholders by way of rights issue, the management of FBN Holdings said it has budgeted an estimated N103.1 billion for its corporate business and retail business lending segments of the market.

The Holdings recently held the signing ceremony to begin the rights issue offering of 5,982,548,799 ordinary shares of 50 kobo each at N25.00 per share to its existing shareholder on the basis of one new ordinary share for every six ordinary shares held as of October 18, 2024.

Extracts from the offer raising prospectus of the financial institution revealed that lending to the corporate business segment gets N77.34 billion, while lending to the retail business segment gets a budget of N25.78 billion.

This covers 68.95 per cent of the N150 billion proposed rights issue the management seeks to raise from existing shareholders.

Out of the N150 billion, a total of N29.46 billion was budgeted to support international business expansion and N14.73 billion for investment in automation and digital banking.

According to the financial institution, seamless and convenient banking experience for its customers would be guaranteed through its significant investment in automation and digital banking.

Through its mobile banking app, FirstMobile, and its internet banking platform, FirstOnline, the management of FBN Holdings said it has effectively acquired a broad cross-section of the target demography, with a clear proposition of owning bank accounts and utilising various financial services from the comfort of their locations.

It added that the bank plans to upgrade the FirstMobile and FirstOnline apps with additional features while driving customer adoption of the platforms, noting that the development is in line with First Bank’s commitment to providing customers with the best-in-class electronic banking experience.

The offer, however, is part of the company’s plan to recapitalise its commercial banking subsidiary, First Bank of Nigeria Limited,  with a view to increasing the bank’s capacity for business development and growth.

Chairman, FBN Holdings, Olufemi Otedola in a statement from the document urged shareholders to support the Rights issue by accepting their rights, stating that the company will be well positioned to achieve its strategic objectives and to deliver improved returns to all stakeholders.

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Banking Sector

Zenith Bank Achieves Triple-Digit Growth, Revenue Surges 118% to N2.9 Trillion

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Zenith Bank - Investors King

Zenith Bank Plc has announced its unaudited results for the third quarter ended 30 September 2024, recording a remarkable triple-digit growth of 118% from N1.33 trillion reported in Q3 2023 to N2.9 trillion in Q3 2024.

This performance underscores the Group’s resilience and market leadership in spite of the challenging macroeconomic environment.

According to the Bank’s unaudited third quarter financial results presented to the Nigerian Exchange (NGX), the triple-digit growth in the topline also led to an increase in the bottom line, as the Group recorded a 99% Year on Year (YoY) increase in profit before tax, growing from N505 billion in Q3 2023 to N1.0 trillion in Q3 2024.  Profit after tax equally grew by 91% from N434.2 billion to N827 billion in the same period.

The growth in the topline was driven by the expansion of both interest income and non-interest income. Interest income saw a notable 190% rise to N1.95 trillion, attributed to the high-yield environment.

Non-interest income rose by 41% to N856 billion, bolstered by substantial growth in fees and commissions, which highlights the strength of Zenith Bank’s retail growth and the robust performance of its digital channels during the reporting period.

The robust increase in profitability reflects the Bank’s focus on operational efficiency and strong risk management practices. Earnings per share (EPS) nearly doubled, rising to N26.34 from N13.82 in Q3 2023, underscoring Zenith Bank’s strong value creation for shareholders.

The Bank’s balance sheet grew significantly, with total assets growing by 49% to N30.4 trillion, largely supported by customer deposits, which rose by 42% to N21.6 trillion.

This growth in deposits was broad-based across corporate and retail segments, highlighting the Bank’s deepening reach and customer loyalty.

Gross loans increased by 46% to N10.3 trillion, underscoring the commitment to supporting strategic sectors in the economy.

Capital adequacy ratio remained strong, improving to 21.9%, well above regulatory requirements. The return on average equity (ROAE) stood at 37.8%, up from 35.1%, while return on average assets (ROAA) also improved to 4.3% as Zenith Bank maximized its asset base.

Cost of funds increased to 4.3%, reflecting the broader market trend of rising interest rates, while the cost of risk was maintained at 7.3%, underscoring the Bank’s proactive approach in provisioning for credit risk.

The Bank’s cost-to-income ratio rose to 39.5%, reflecting the impact of strategic investments in technology and capacity building aimed at supporting long-term growth, even as it continues to strive for greater operational efficiency.

Zenith Bank’s asset quality remains a cornerstone of its strength, with a non-performing loan (NPL) ratio of 4.5%, within regulatory limits. A high coverage ratio of 198.4% underscores the Bank’s disciplined approach to risk management, positioning it for resilience in the face of market volatility while supporting stable loan growth.

Zenith Bank remains steadfast in its commitment to sustainable growth and value creation. The Bank launched a capital raise program on August 1, 2024, consisting of a combined Rights Issue and Public Offer.

This capital raise was driven by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN)’s recapitalization directive for commercial banks issued in March 2024. While the Bank awaits final capital verification approvals from authorities, the fundraising exercise was successful, reflecting strong confidence in Zenith Bank’s brand.

The additional capital will enhance the Bank’s ability to expand its product offerings, deepen its penetration in strategic sectors, boost lending to the real sector and pursue its African and global expansion plan.

In furtherance of this, the Bank in September 2024 received regulatory approval for the establishment of a Zenith Bank branch in Paris, France, which is fully operational and will enhance the Bank’s product offerings in international markets.

With a strengthened capital base, Zenith Bank is well-positioned to navigate the evolving economic landscape, while putting best-practice sustainability standards at the heart of its business.

The Bank will also continue to prioritize opportunities that enhance stakeholder value and a strong compliance and corporate governance culture, which will reinforce the its leadership position within Nigeria’s financial sector and drive long-term growth.

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Banking Sector

UBA Expands Footprint in the Middle East with New Subsidiary in Saudi Arabia

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UBA House Marina

Africa’s Global Bank, United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc, has set the wheels in motion to expand its operations in the Middle East with plan ongoing to open a subsidiary in Saudi Arabia, its largest economy.

This move which is expected to happen within the next year will mark the bank’s second subsidiary in the Gulf Region, following the expansion of its business to the United Arab Emirates in 2022.

UBA’s Group Deputy Managing Director, Muyiwa Akinyemi, who disclosed this during a panel session during the 8th Edition of the Future Investment Initiative(FII) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia and in an interview with Arise TV, underscored the bank’s strategic commitment towards fostering Africa’s growth through infrastructure development, youth empowerment, and sustainable partnerships across key global markets.

He said, “Opening a presence in Saudi Arabia represents the next step for us in connecting the Africa-Gulf region. We are excited to bring UBA’s expertise in financial services to Saudi Arabia, where we aim to facilitate knowledge transfer and create strong economic linkages. This venture will further enable us to access Saudi expertise in food security, energy transition, and sustainable practices, which are all critical for Africa’s continued development.”

While emphasising the importance of Africa as a strategic investment destination for long-term capital, he said, “Africa’s infrastructure deficit is an opportunity for investors worldwide. Our pitch to the Gulf and Southeast Asia emphasizes that Africa must be part of their investment horizon. Today, food security is paramount as our population expands.

Akinyemi also highlighted the bank’s dedication to nurturing Africa’s youth talent through entrepreneurship. “Guided by our Group Chairman’s efforts with the Tony Elumelu Foundation, UBA is committed to supporting young entrepreneurs in tech, agriculture, and entertainment, which are all burgeoning sectors in Africa. With such a young and dynamic population, we see enormous potential for innovation and growth.”

He also reiterated the bank’s continuous support for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Africa and beyond as he outlined the bank’s commitment to these businesses, which he referred to as key players in the African economy and vehicles for employment and economic growth.

“SMEs are the backbone of economic development in Africa. They contribute significantly to job creation and value chains, particularly within Nigeria. Over the last year, UBA has committed billions to support SMEs across Africa, and our network of over 20 countries enables us to make a substantial impact.”

During the panel discussions, Akinyemi took time to emphasize UBA’s longstanding experience on the continent as it navigates an ever-evolving investment landscape, adding that “As investors, we focus on infrastructure and sustainable projects that encourage economic prosperity while addressing pressing issues such as talent migration. Our goal is to ensure that people can thrive in Africa without needing to relocate. By investing in local talent and fostering growth sectors, we contribute to building the next generation of global innovators right here in Africa.”

The DMD further articulated UBA’s approach to risk management on the continent, emphasizing that the bank’s 75-year history has uniquely equipped it with insights and strategies to navigate diverse markets.

“With over seven decades of experience, Africa is what we know, and that knowledge allows us to manage risks effectively. We see tremendous opportunities in various sectors across the continent, and our continued investments are driven by a commitment to bring economic empowerment to communities, increase GDP, and improve socioeconomic quality. Our anniversary is a celebration of UBA’s legacy of contributing to Africa’s progress. We look forward to leveraging this milestone to drive even greater impact across sectors and empower future generations,” he said.

United Bank for Africa Plc is a leading Pan-African financial institution, offering banking services to more than forty-five million customers, across 1,000 business offices and customer touch points in 20 African countries. With presence in New York, London, Paris and Dubai, UBA is connecting people and businesses across Africa through retail, commercial and corporate banking, innovative cross-border payments and remittances, trade finance and ancillary banking services.

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