FirstBank confirms Olayinka Ijabiyi as Group Head of Marketing and Corporate Communications

*TL;DR: FirstBank has confirmed Olayinka Ijabiyi as the Group Head of Marketing and Corporate Communications, effective immediately.

Context FirstBank, a leading West African financial institution, announced a key leadership change as it continues a transformation agenda aimed at deepening financial inclusion. The bank’s board formalised the appointment of Olayinka Ijabiyi, who has been steering the marketing function in an acting capacity since December 2024.

Key Facts - Olayinka Ijabiyi brings more than 25 years of experience in marketing and corporate communications across banking, telecom, media and international development. - He joined FirstBank in 2011, progressing through roles such as Head Brand Strategy and Special Projects, Head Digital Marketing, and Head Brand and Stakeholder Management. - Prior to FirstBank, Ijabiyi held senior positions at the British Council, Multichoice, MTN and Etisalat Nigeria, where he led brand‑building and digital transformation projects. - His academic credentials include a Master’s in Public and International Affairs from the University of Lagos and a Bachelor’s in English Language from Ondo State University. He is a Fellow of the National Institute of Marketing of Nigeria and a member of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations. - As Group Head, Ijabiyi will oversee integrated marketing, brand and reputation management, executive positioning, corporate responsibility, sustainability and strategic communications across all FirstBank markets.

What It Means Confirming Ijabiyi solidifies FirstBank’s governance structure at a pivotal growth stage, ensuring continuity in brand strategy while leveraging his cross‑sector expertise. His track record of delivering brand refreshes and efficiency gains suggests the bank will intensify its market visibility and stakeholder engagement. The appointment also signals FirstBank’s commitment to aligning communications with its broader business objectives, including digital expansion and sustainability initiatives. Watch for the rollout of new integrated campaigns and potential shifts in the bank’s public positioning as Ijabiyi’s strategies take shape.