By Ayomide Otitoju
FirstBank of Nigeria, a leading financial institution in West Africa, has rolled out an advanced facial biometric technology on its mobile banking platform, FirstMobile, as part of a comprehensive upgrade aimed at delivering a more secure and seamless user experience.
The new facial recognition feature allows customers to register and activate the FirstMobile app using only facial verification, eliminating the need for physical debit or credit cards. The solution is supported by advanced anti-spoofing technology, designed to prevent identity fraud and enhance account security.
According to the bank, the innovation addresses the needs of a wide range of users, including new and diaspora customers, individuals without cards, those with lost or expired cards, and users experiencing verification issues or limited card access. By leveraging facial biometrics, FirstBank aims to streamline access to key banking services such as fund transfers, bill payments, and account management—anytime, anywhere.
The upgrade also introduces several new features to FirstMobile, including:
Virtual credit cards for secure online transactions
Instant credit card activation via the app
Flexible salary advances with a three-month repayment option
General performance improvements and bug fixes
“These enhancements are part of our ongoing commitment to delivering a superior digital banking experience,” said Chukwuma Ezirim, Group Executive, E-Business and Retail Products Division at FirstBank. “Our facial biometric onboarding ensures easy access for our customers, while the virtual card and instant credit card activation provide added convenience and security.”
Ezirim added, “FirstBank continues to explore innovative solutions that empower customers to bank with ease and confidence. As the financial landscape evolves, we are dedicated to ensuring that our digital platforms remain secure, efficient, and user-friendly.”
With this latest upgrade, FirstBank reinforces its position as a trailblazer in Nigeria’s digital banking ecosystem, aligning with its mission to offer cutting-edge financial solutions while prioritizing customer satisfaction and data security.
