By Ayomide Otitoju
FirstBank has reinforced its commitment to human capital development through a range of initiatives aimed at empowering employees, enhancing career growth, and building a strong pipeline of future leaders.
The bank said its people-focused strategy is designed to move beyond traditional employment by creating structured opportunities for staff to develop professionally, assume leadership roles, and contribute more effectively to organisational growth.
A key component of this strategy is its Conversion Programme, which enables eligible non-core employees with at least one year of service to transition into permanent roles. The initiative is intended to provide job security while recognising performance and dedication within the workforce.
In addition, FirstBank has introduced a suite of leadership development programmes targeted at nurturing high-potential talent across various levels of the organisation. These include the FirstBank Management Associate Programme (FMAP), a 24-month fast-track scheme that prepares participants for middle management roles; the Leadership Acceleration Programme (LAP), which equips mid-level staff for higher responsibilities; and the Senior Management Development Programme (SMDP), designed for senior executives identified as critical to succession planning.
Supporting these initiatives is FirstAcademy, the bank’s corporate university, accredited by the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria. Through partnerships with global institutions such as Rome Business School and Association of Chartered Certified Accountants, employees are provided access to internationally recognised training and certifications.
The bank’s parent company, First HoldCo PLC, was recently ranked among the top workplaces in Nigeria’s financial services sector, reflecting its commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment.
FirstBank noted that its continued investment in employee development underscores its belief that people remain its most valuable asset, positioning the institution to cultivate a new generation of leaders capable of driving innovation and growth within Nigeria’s banking industry and beyond.
