First Bank of Nigeria Limited has announced a strategic alliance with EStars Education Africa Limited to introduce structured esports learning programmes and explore financial innovations targeted at Africa’s fast-expanding gaming market.
The initiative includes the rollout of certified esports qualifications designed to prepare students for career opportunities in competitive gaming and related fields.
According to FirstBank, the partnership aligns with its long-term objective of empowering young Nigerians through digital inclusion, skills development and sector-specific education.
As part of the agreement, both organisations are also developing a co-branded gaming credit card.
The product is expected to combine traditional financial benefits with gaming-oriented features such as access to exclusive events, reward points, and tailored spending limits for digital platforms.
FirstBank said the collaboration reflects its commitment to driving innovation across emerging industries while offering value-driven financial solutions to a digitally engaged youth population.
The bank added that its nationwide reach and digital banking infrastructure position it to lead in shaping new consumer experiences across esports, education and payments.
Chukwuma Ezirim, Group Executive of e-Business and Retail Products Division at FirstBank, stated that esports represents a growing sector with potential to unlock new career paths and economic value for Nigerian youth.
He noted that the bank is supporting initiatives that foster knowledge acquisition, digital skill-building and long-term empowerment.
Mags Byrne, Chief Executive Officer of EStars, said the partnership is a major step toward integrating esports into formal education frameworks across Africa.
She revealed that offering qualifications in esports will help legitimise the industry and expand access to professional opportunities in gaming, broadcasting, marketing and game development.
EStars courses will include internationally recognised certifications that meet industry standards, allowing students to gain competitive skills that are transferable across global markets.
The educational content will be delivered through partner institutions with support from FirstBank’s outreach network.
With over 820 business locations and more than 39 million customer accounts, FirstBank said it is strategically positioned to link financial literacy with education and sectoral innovation.
The bank emphasised that the initiative is part of a broader focus on aligning financial services with non-traditional industries expected to define future economic activity.
The rollout of the esports curriculum will begin with pilot programmes in select regions before national expansion. Updates on the co-branded credit card are expected later this year pending regulatory approvals.
FirstBank reaffirmed its commitment to supporting platforms that improve access to technology, education and finance while promoting sustainable youth development in Nigeria and across the continent.
