Access Bank has secured a major international accolade, being officially named the Bank of the Year 2025 – Nigeria at the prestigious Banker Awards ceremony. The awards, organized annually by The Banker, a publication of the Financial Times Group, celebrate the highest-performing financial institutions across over 120 countries.
The announcement was made during a high-profile gala held on December 3, 2025, at the Peninsula Hotel in London, where leading global banks gathered to recognize outstanding achievements in the international financial services sector. Access Bank emerged as the sole winner for Nigeria, a selection that powerfully reflects the Bank’s exceptional performance, meticulous execution of strategy, and unwavering commitment to providing world-class banking experiences.
The Banker Awards criteria focuses on excellence across several critical areas: financial performance, operational resilience, innovation, and industry leadership.
Speaking on the significant recognition, Roosevelt Ogbonna, Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Access Bank, attributed the success to his team and their customers. “This award reflects the remarkable dedication of our people and the trust of our customers,” Ogbonna said. “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 consistently reinforced its position as one of Africa’s most forward-thinking financial institutions, driven by customer-centricity, strong corporate governance, and continuous innovation. Strategic investments in key areas—including digital transformation, trade finance, financial inclusion, and sustainable banking—have cemented its status as a leading force shaping the continent’s financial future. These initiatives, coupled with the Bank’s disciplined approach to growth and operational excellence, continue to differentiate it within Africa’s rapidly evolving financial landscape.
Each year, The Banker conducts an extremely rigorous, five-month evaluation process, reviewing more than 1,000 applications submitted by banks worldwide. Only one bank is ultimately selected per country, underscoring the exclusivity and prestige associated with the honor. Access Bank’s victory represents not only recognition of its achievements over the past year but also a firm reaffirmation of its long-term commitment to innovation, customer support, and fostering a more connected African and global economy.
With its operations spanning three continents and a customer base exceeding 60 million, Access Bank continues to demonstrate the scale and ambition required to shape the future of banking in Africa and meaningfully contribute to global financial progress.
