First Bank confirms Olayinka Ijabiyi as group head for marketing and communications

First Bank of Nigeria has appointed Olayinka Ijabiyi as its substantive group head for marketing and corporate communications, formalising a role he has held in an acting capacity since December 2024.

The bank disclosed the appointment in a statement on Friday, noting that it takes immediate effect and forms part of its broader corporate governance and transformation strategy.

According to the lender, Ijabiyi brings more than 25 years of experience spanning financial services, telecommunications, media, and international development. In his new role, he will oversee the bank’s integrated marketing and communications strategy, including brand management, corporate reputation, executive positioning, sustainability initiatives, and stakeholder engagement.

First Bank said the appointment reflects its commitment to strengthening brand visibility and aligning communication efforts with its long-term business objectives as competition intensifies within Nigeria’s banking sector.

Ijabiyi joined the bank in 2011 and has since held several senior roles within the marketing and corporate communications division. His previous positions include head of brand strategy and special projects, head of digital marketing, and head of brand and stakeholder management.

Before joining First Bank, he worked with organisations such as British Council, MTN Nigeria, MultiChoice, and Etisalat Nigeria, building experience across multiple industries.

The bank added that he holds a master’s degree in public and international affairs from the University of Lagos and a bachelor’s degree in English from Ondo State University, Ado Ekiti.

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Ijabiyi is also a fellow of the National Institute of Marketing of Nigeria and the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, underscoring his professional standing in the communications and marketing field.

The confirmation comes as First Bank continues to refine its corporate strategy, with a focus on strengthening its brand positioning and customer engagement across key markets.