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Governor Lauds FirstBank’s Vision as Femi Otedola Promises Global Banking Innovation at Eko Atlantic City Groundbreaking
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has officially handed over the certificate of approval to Femi Otedola, Group Chairman of FirstHoldCo PLC, for the construction of the company’s new 43-storey green-certified headquarters at Eko Atlantic City. The groundbreaking ceremony, held on Wednesday, marked the commencement of what will become Nigeria’s tallest building upon completion.
Governor Sanwo-Olu, who also laid the first set of bricks for the eco-friendly edifice, praised FirstBank for its pioneering role in the financial sector and its commitment to sustainable development. “I’m now handing over a certificate of approval for them to commence work immediately,” he declared.
The governor commended the visionaries behind Eko Atlantic City, describing it as a model city for Africa. “Mr. Femi Otedola, well done. Well done to your board and well done to your management. CBN Governor, thank you for the approval. We hope you extend similar approvals to other financial institutions, as there is space for them, too,” Sanwo-Olu added.
In his remarks, Otedola assured customers and stakeholders that FirstBank would continue to be a legacy institution, investing in cutting-edge technology, human capital, and customer-centric innovations. “We shall continue to invest in partnerships and innovations that will define banking globally, even as we deepen our footprints across Nigeria,” he said.
Otedola also hailed Eko Atlantic City as the “ninth wonder of the world,” following the “eighth wonder,” Dangote Metropolitan City. “These two wonders reaffirm my faith that Nigeria is indeed a great nation,” he stated.
The event was graced by prominent dignitaries, including Vice President Kashim Shettima, Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, Aliko Dangote of Dangote Industries, Gilbert and Roland Chagoury of the Chagoury Group, and former Kwara State Governor Bukola Saraki.
Olayinka Ijabiyi, Acting Group Head of Marketing and Corporate Communications for FirstBank, described the project as an “engineering and environmental delight,” noting its technologically advanced and eco-friendly design. The new headquarters is expected to set a new standard for the financial services sector in Africa, further cementing FirstBank’s position as a leader in innovation and sustainability.
As construction begins, the project symbolizes a bold step forward for Nigeria’s architectural and economic landscape, showcasing the country’s potential on the global stage.