By Emmanuel Kwada
First Bank of Nigeria has officially launched the groundbreaking ceremony for its brand-new, green-certified Head Office Tower at Eko Atlantic, Victoria Island, Lagos. The ambitious project, set to redefine the Lagos skyline, promises to deliver a 43-storey, 252-meter marvel that will claim the title of Nigeria’s tallest building upon completion.
The ceremony, graced by Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima GCON, marks a bold step forward for First Bank, one of Nigeria’s oldest and most revered financial institutions, as it blends sustainability with cutting-edge design. The event drew a distinguished crowd of dignitaries, industry leaders, and stakeholders, all eager to witness the dawn of what promises to be a global-standard architectural masterpiece.
The new Head Office Tower is envisioned as more than just a corporate headquarters. Designed with world-class elegance, the facility will feature open-space offices, state-of-the-art workspaces, and luxurious interiors that reflect First Bank’s legacy of excellence. Beyond its corporate functions, the tower will house spaces for global financial events, digital media outdoor displays, restaurants, shopping malls, and a host of other amenities, positioning it as a vibrant hub for business and leisure.
This is a monumental leap for First Bank and Nigeria as a whole
Speaking at the event, First Bank’s Group Managing Director emphasized the tower’s significance: “This is a monumental leap for First Bank and Nigeria as a whole. Our new headquarters will not only symbolize our commitment to innovation and sustainability but also serve as a beacon of economic progress and national pride.”
A standout feature of the project is its green certification, aligning with global environmental standards. The tower will incorporate energy-efficient systems, sustainable materials, and eco-friendly technologies, reflecting First Bank’s dedication to reducing its carbon footprint while meeting the demands of a modern workforce.
Vice President Shettima, in his keynote address, lauded the initiative as a testament to Nigeria’s growing stature on the global stage.
“This towering achievement showcases the ingenuity and resilience of our private sector. It is a symbol of what we can accomplish when vision meets determination,” he said, before ceremonially breaking ground alongside bank executives.
This towering achievement showcases the ingenuity and resilience of our private sector
Set against the backdrop of Eko Atlantic—a burgeoning city-within-a-city reclaimed from the Atlantic Ocean—the tower is poised to elevate Lagos’s reputation as Africa’s commercial capital.
At 252 meters, it will surpass the current record holder, the 160-meter NECOM House, also in Lagos, cementing Nigeria’s place in the race for architectural supremacy on the continent.
The project, though still in its early stages, has already sparked excitement among Lagosians and industry watchers. Analysts predict it will boost property values in Eko Atlantic, attract international businesses, and create thousands of jobs during and after construction.
With its blend of functionality, luxury, and sustainability, the First Bank Tower is expected to set a new benchmark for corporate architecture in Africa.
As the ceremony concluded with applause and optimism, all eyes now turn to the construction timeline. While no official completion date has been announced, First Bank has assured stakeholders of its commitment to delivering a world-class facility that will stand the test of time. For now, the groundbreaking marks the beginning of a transformative journey—one that promises to leave an indelible mark on Nigeria’s skyline and its economic future.
