By Susan Olalere FirstBank Group has reaffirmed its dedication to advancing financial technology by awarding ₦29.5 million to 10 innovative Nigerian startups at the FirstBank Fintech Summit 6.0. Held on November 13–14, 2024, at the Lagos Continental Hotel, the summit spotlighted groundbreaking ideas and partnerships under the theme, “Banking on Partnerships.”
The event brought together fintech leaders, investors, and experts to explore collaborative solutions that could redefine Nigeria’s financial landscape. With 147 startups vying for recognition, the summit celebrated 10 exceptional finalists whose solutions promise to drive financial inclusion and economic development.
Celebrating Innovation
At the heart of the event was NearSwipe Limited, a startup providing NFC-enabled smart ID cards integrated with payment solutions for university students. NearSwipe claimed the top prize of ₦10 million for its potential to transform financial transactions in educational institutions.
Other notable winners included:
– Middleman: Awarded ₦7.5 million for its seamless payment solutions for African e-commerce businesses working with Chinese suppliers.
– Esusu Africa Limited: Secured ₦5 million for its innovative approach to digital thrift and credit banking.
The remaining seven finalists received ₦1 million each to further develop their cutting-edge solutions.
Speaking at the summit, FirstBank Group CEO/MD Olusegun Alebiosu emphasised the importance of collaboration in driving financial innovation:
“This summit is more than just a conference. It is a platform for sparking creativity and fostering partnerships that can create a more inclusive and resilient financial ecosystem.”
Lande Atere, Chief Customer Experience Officer at FirstBank, reinforced the bank’s commitment to fintech growth, stating:
“Our goal is not to compete with fintechs but to collaborate with them. Through bootcamps, investor connections, and platforms like this summit, we aim to help startups grow while improving Nigeria’s financial landscape.”
Beyond the Summit
FirstBank’s support for fintech innovation goes beyond the event. Innovators are encouraged to pitch their ideas year-round via the bank’s official platform, creating opportunities for continuous engagement and growth.
Olayinka Situ, Head of Corporate Transformation at FirstBank, highlighted the bank’s long-term vision:
“We’re committed to empowering startups with resources and mentorship to drive digital transformation across the country.”
OpeOluwa Okudero
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