FirstBank of Nigeria will host and sponsor the West Africa International Banking Dialogue and Awards Gala 2026 on October 14 in Lagos, bringing together banking executives, regulators, policymakers and financial industry experts to discuss the future of banking across the region.
The event, scheduled for Wednesday, will focus on digital transformation, financial inclusion, regulatory developments, sustainable finance and regional economic integration. Participants are expected to examine challenges facing financial institutions and identify opportunities to improve banking services and strengthen cooperation across West Africa.
FirstBank Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Olusegun Alebiosu, said the gathering would provide an opportunity for industry leaders to exchange ideas and develop partnerships capable of supporting the growth of financial services.
He said the bank remained committed to innovation, financial inclusion, sustainable growth and creating value for stakeholders.
The gala will also highlight FirstBank’s recent industry recognition. The bank was named Best Retail Bank in Nigeria, Best SME Bank in Nigeria and Best SME Bank in Africa by The Asian Banker.
FirstBank received the Best Retail Bank in Nigeria award for the ninth time in 2025. It has also earned recognition for its support of small and medium-sized enterprises in Nigeria and across Africa in consecutive years.
The dialogue comes as financial institutions face growing pressure to expand digital services, improve access to banking and respond to changing regulatory requirements.
For West African businesses, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises, stronger financial inclusion and more efficient banking services could improve access to payments, credit and other financial products.
The Lagos gathering is expected to provide a platform for stakeholders to discuss practical approaches to strengthening the region’s financial services sector and supporting economic activity across national borders.
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