Access Bank has been named Bank of the Year 2025 – Nigeria at the prestigious Banker Awards ceremony held in London on Wednesday, December 3, 2025. Organised annually by The Banker, a publication of the Financial Times Group, the awards celebrate the best-performing financial institutions across more than 120 countries, recognising excellence in innovation, financial performance, operational resilience, and industry leadership.
The announcement was made during a high-profile gala at the Peninsula Hotel in London, where leading global banks gathered to celebrate outstanding achievements in the international financial services sector. Access Bank emerged as the sole winner for Nigeria, reflecting the Bank’s exceptional performance, disciplined execution of strategy, and continued commitment to delivering world-class banking experiences.
Speaking on the recognition, Roosevelt Ogbonna, Managing Director/CEO, Access Bank, said: “This award reflects the remarkable dedication of our people and the trust of our customers. Being recognised as Bank of the Year 2025 – Nigeria is a strong validation of our strategy to build a globally connected, digitally powered, and sustainably driven banking institution. We remain committed to delivering exceptional value across all our markets while contributing meaningfully to Africa’s economic advancement.”
Access Bank has continued to solidify its position as one of Africa’s most forward-thinking financial institutions, driven by innovation, customer-centricity, and strong corporate governance. The Bank’s strategic investments across digital transformation, trade finance, financial inclusion, and sustainable banking have positioned it as a leading force shaping Africa’s financial future. These initiatives, coupled with its disciplined approach to growth and operational excellence, continue to set Access Bank apart within the continent’s rapidly evolving financial landscape.
Each year, The Banker undertakes a rigorous, five-month evaluation process involving more than 1,000 applications submitted by banks worldwide. Only one bank is selected per country, underscoring the exclusivity and prestige of the award.
Access Bank’s victory therefore represents not only a recognition of its achievements over the past year but also a reaffirmation of its long-term commitment to driving innovation, supporting customers, and enabling a more connected African and global economy.
With operations spanning three continents and a customer base of more than 60 million, Access Bank continues to demonstrate its capability and ambition to shape the future of banking in Africa and contribute meaningfully to global financial progress.
Access Bank, a wholly owned subsidiary of Access Holdings Plc, is a leading full-service commercial bank operating through a network of more than 700 branches and service outlets spanning 3 continents, 24 countries and over 60 million customers. The Bank employs over 28,000 people in its operations in Africa Asia and Europe, with representative offices in China, Lebanon, India, and the UAE.
