In a world where business survival is a steep climb — with 20% of new businesses failing within two years, 45% within five, and only 25% reaching the 15-year mark — crossing over a century in operation is a monumental feat. For a financial services group like First HoldCo Plc (FirstHoldCo), with a legacy spanning over 130 years, longevity is more than just endurance; it’s a testament to adaptability, strategic foresight, and unwavering commitment to sustainability.
From Legacy to Leadership
Rebranded from FBN Holdings Plc, FirstHoldCo stands as one of Africa’s largest financial services organizations, with subsidiaries spanning commercial banking, asset management, capital markets, securities, trusteeship, and insurance brokerage. Beyond its diverse portfolio, what truly sets FirstHoldCo apart is its ability to balance profit with purpose — embedding Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles across its operations to deliver long-term stakeholder value.
ESG at the Core of Business Strategy
For FirstHoldCo, ESG isn’t just a buzzword but a foundational pillar. It’s a self-driven commitment to creating a positive impact, turning potential risks into growth opportunities. Subsidiaries like FirstBank and FBNQuest integrate ESG considerations from product ideation to launch, fostering responsible lending and investment practices. In 2023 alone, FirstBank screened 2,239 credit transactions worth N4.236 trillion for ESG risks, enhancing decision-making and minimizing long-term exposure.
Partnerships with development finance institutions, including British International Investment, the African Development Bank, the International Finance Corporation (IFC), and Proparco, have strengthened First
