Otedola receives Shettima, Dangote, Sanwo-Olu at FirstBank’s groundbreaking ceremony for green-certified HQ

Femi Otedola

First Bank of Nigeria Limited chairman Femi Otedola, has received Vice President Kashim Shettima, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, billionaire businessman Aliko Dangote, others at the groundbreaking ceremony for FirstBank’s new green-certified headquarters on Wednesday at Eko Atlantic City, Lagos.

Qed.ng had earlier reported on the groundbreaking ceremony in the early hours of Wednesday.

A statement released before the event by FirstBank’s Acting Group Head, Marketing & Corporate Communications, Olayinka Ijabiyi, described the 40-storey project as an engineering and environmental landmark, set to be the tallest building in Nigeria.

He emphasized that the new headquarters is designed for sustainability, reducing operational costs while positioning FirstBank as a leader in eco-friendly banking.

Otedola also underscored the importance of collaboration in bringing the project to life.

Videos from the event shared by Ovation Media on Instagram showed the presence of other dignitaries, including Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, Chagoury Group co-founders Gilbert and Roland Chagoury, businessman Dr. Deji Adeleke, Tunde Folawiyo, former Senate President Bukola Saraki and Senator Daisy Danjuma.

Shettima, representing President Bola Tinubu, delivered a keynote address, reaffirming the federal government’s commitment to positioning Eko Atlantic City as a global financial hub.

He highlighted the administration’s dedication to fostering innovation, sustainable development, and economic growth.

During the event, Governor Sanwo-Olu presented a certificate of approval to FirstBank Group to commence construction of its eco-friendly headquarters in Eko Atlantic City. While making his speech, he praised FirstBank’s initiative, saying:

“FirstBank, as always, has taken the lead. I want to thank the visionaries who have created a new city that will serve as Africa’s model city — one we will all be proud of. Mr. Femi Otedola, well done. Well done to your board and well done to your management. CBN Governor, thank you for the approval. We hope you extend similar approvals to other financial institutions, as there is space for them too.

“I am now handing over a certificate of approval for them to commence work immediately.”