The Traffic

First Bank Set to Build Nigeria’s Tallest Tower—A Game-Changer for Banking and Lagos Skyline

By Achimi Muktar

First Bank is making history with the construction of a 43-storey headquarters in Eko Atlantic City, Lagos, a move that will not only redefine its legacy but also transform Nigeria’s financial landscape.

Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu officially approved the project on Wednesday, presenting the bank with its construction certificate during a grand groundbreaking ceremony led by Vice President Kashim Shettima.

A Tower That Redefines Lagos

Set to become the tallest building in Nigeria and West Africa, the architectural masterpiece will symbolize First Bank’s strength, innovation, and commitment to the future.

Sanwo-Olu, while presenting the approval certificate, praised First Bank for maintaining its legacy and urged other financial institutions to follow suit.

“We want to see the tower rising month after month, shaping the skyline of our aquatic city,” he said. “From tomorrow, construction must begin.”

The governor also acknowledged the Chagoury brothers, owners of Eko Atlantic City, for their vision in developing a world-class business hub.

A Future-Driven Vision

First Bank Holdings' Chief Executive Officer, Olusegun Alebiosu, described the new headquarters as a monument to resilience, adaptability, and customer commitment.

“This is more than a skyscraper; it’s about reimagining banking for future generations,” he said. “The headquarters will be a hub for financial innovation, digital transformation, and operational excellence in an era where technology is reshaping the industry.”

A Milestone for Lagos and Nigeria

The project was also hailed as a milestone by First Bank’s Chairman, Femi Otedola, who emphasized its significance to the growth of Lagos and Nigeria’s banking sector.

“This edifice represents a bold step in building a legacy that stands the test of time,” Otedola said. “We appreciate President Bola Tinubu, Governor Sanwo-Olu, and CBN Governor Olayemi Cardoso for creating a business-friendly environment that makes such ambitious projects possible.”

Governors Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State and Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State also lauded the initiative, calling it a testament to First Bank’s leadership in Nigeria’s financial sector.

What This Means for Nigeria

Beyond its imposing skyline presence, the 43-storey headquarters will position First Bank as a leader in the modern banking era, bringing innovation, employment opportunities, and increased foreign investment to Lagos.

As construction begins, the world will be watching to see how First Bank’s towering ambition shapes the future of banking in Nigeria.