FirstBank, West Africa’s premier financial institution and a leading financial inclusion provider, is set to roll out tailored banking services for blind, partially sighted, and physically challenged customers across its operations.
The initiative is part of the bank’s broader commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Financial Inclusion, reflected in its gender-balanced workforce (41% women, with 37% in management roles), the FirstBank Women Network, and its membership of UN Women under the Women’s Empowerment Principles (WEPs).
Commenting on the launch, Chief Risk Officer and Chairman of the FirstBank Sustainability Committee, Patrick Akhidenor, said:
“Everyone deserves access to financial services whether physically or digitally. We recognise this, and we are providing financial services that are both accessible and affordable to visually impaired and physically challenged customers at all our touchpoints. We are making it possible for them to manage their accounts independently and securely.”
The initiative will be rolled out in phases across the FirstBank Group’s subsidiaries and locations. Key features include:
- Accessible transaction documents in braille, audio, large print, and digital formats.
- Upgraded ATMs with high-contrast screens and voice-prompt commands.
- Inclusive bank cards with tactile motifs and braille inscriptions for easy recognition.
- Enhanced soft PINs and tokens to strengthen secure access to banking channels.
- Product brochures available in braille and audio formats.
This move aligns with the Central Bank of Nigeria’s financial inclusion strategy and the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, which advocate equal access to financial services.
By embedding accessibility into its core operations, FirstBank is setting a new benchmark for ethical and inclusive banking in Nigeria and beyond, ensuring every individual can manage their finances without third-party dependence.
