FirstBank partners UNIBEN to expand digital banking

The Chief Executive Officer of First Bank of Nigeria, Olusegun Alebiosu, has said the bank’s Digital Xperience Centre is a step towards redefining how banking connects with education, technology, and the wider community.

He stated this at the launch of a Digital Xperience Centre, the ninth in the country, at the University of Benin recently. Alebiosu also allayed fears that the DXC, which he said is meant to improve customers’ experience, would lead to job losses.

He said the DXCs are gateways to a smarter, faster, and more personalised financial journey. The FirstBank boss said the centres are equipped with cutting-edge technology, as well as state-of-the-art self-service terminals designed to simplify transactions while ensuring top-tier security and efficiency.

He said the partnership with UNIBEN led to the creation of a hub where students, faculty, and community members can access FirstBank’s digital world. Alebiosu said the centre provides an elevated banking experience with speed and ease, designed to put the customer in control.

He said, “This digital experience centre set up by FirstBank is to take banking to the next step. It is virtually everything you see in a banking hall, and the same service. You can do everything from account opening, change of phone number, change of email, make complaints, and all others, cash withdrawal, and account statement. You can deposit money into your account.

“It will not lead to any loss of jobs. More and more people are accessing banking services, but banking platforms are not expanding as fast. This digital experience is to complement a branch. Instead of having crowds in a banking hall, frustration and complaints, people can come to the centre. It is for flexibility. The banking hall can close at 4 pm, but this one is a 24-hour operation.

“Students having examinations do not have to worry. They can come here at any time. They can be here at midnight. It is convenient and flexible. Our DXCs operate around the clock, including weekends, providing the convenience you need to bank anytime in just a few minutes.

“It embodies our commitment to Environmental, Social, and Governance principles, as it promotes financial inclusion, fosters digital literacy, and uses sustainable technology to empower underserved communities.”

The Vice-Chancellor of UNIBEN, Prof Edoba Omoregie, said the institution was pleased with the centre. He said, “We are excited and grateful to the bank. It is going to expand the scope of our staff and faculty. It will make our operations better. Ours is a big university, and the university is pleased with the bank for bringing it here.”