csrreporters 
FirstBank is taking a major step toward inclusive finance by introducing tailored banking services for Persons Living with Disabilities (PLWD), a move set to broaden access to financial tools and empower underserved segments of the population.
The initiative, which targets customers who are blind, partially sighted, or physically challenged, is aligned with the Central Bank of Nigeria’s financial inclusion strategy and the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. Through this programme, transaction documents will be provided in Braille, audio, large print, and digital formats, while ATMs will feature high-contrast screens and voice prompt commands. Cards will carry tactile motifs and Braille inscriptions, and soft PINs and tokens will be enhanced to ensure secure and independent access to banking channels.
Patrick Akhidenor, Chief Risk Officer and Chairman of the FirstBank Sustainability Committee, highlighted the broader significance of the initiative, Everyone deserves access to financial services, whether physically or digitally. By making banking accessible for visually impaired and physically challenged customers, we are enabling greater participation in economic activities and supporting financial independence.
The phased rollout across all subsidiaries underscores FirstBank’s commitment to inclusivity, diversity, and sustainable economic development. Beyond accessibility, the bank’s focus on equitable policies such as its 41:59 female-to-male ratio and 37 per cent women in management demonstrates a broader dedication to empowering all demographics.
This forward-thinking approach not only enhances the economic participation of people with disabilities but also strengthens the overall financial ecosystem. By removing barriers and creating equal opportunities, FirstBank is helping to cultivate a more inclusive economy where all citizens can contribute meaningfully to growth and prosperity
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