First Bank of Nigeria Limited has distinguished itself as an early adopter of the Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN) latest regulatory framework, becoming one of the first Tier-1 lenders to open its vast Automated Teller Machine network to holders of international bank cards. This decisive move follows a mandate from the apex bank requiring domestic institutions to integrate global payment standards, effectively bridging the gap between the Nigerian financial system and the international community.
Following a directive issued by the apex bank on Thursday, 18 December 2025, FirstBank formally notified its clientele on Wednesday, 24 December, that its extensive network of Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) across the Federation has been successfully configured to accept foreign-issued cards.
The policy shift, orchestrated by Dr Rita Sike, Director of the Financial Policy & Regulation Department at the CBN, aims to streamline access to liquidity for international travellers. According to the CBN circular, the initiative is designed to “enhance convenience, security, and user experience” for those utilising global cards within the domestic financial ecosystem.
In a statement released to customers via electronic mail, FirstBank confirmed its readiness: “We are pleased to inform you that FirstBank ATMs across Nigeria now accept international and globally issued ATM cards. You can conveniently withdraw cash at any FirstBank ATM using your foreign-issued or internationally accepted bank cards, enjoying secure, reliable, and seamless access to your funds anywhere in Nigeria.”
This technological milestone coincides with the peak of the festive season, a period traditionally marked by a high influx of Nigerians residing overseas. FirstBank has anticipated this demand by establishing a dedicated service hub at the Arrival Terminal of Murtala Mohammed International Airport in Lagos.
This specialized team is tasked with facilitating immediate banking solutions for arrivals, including the opening of Diaspora Accounts and the mandatory enrolment of Bank Verification Numbers (BVN) and National Identification Numbers (NIN).
The CBN’s mandate extends beyond simple accessibility. Financial institutions are required to ensure that all point-of-sale (PoS) and web-based terminals are fully compliant with international card association standards.
To safeguard the integrity of the financial system, the regulator has introduced robust security protocols. Lenders must now implement multi-factor authentication (MFA) for any transactions exceeding $200 per day, $500 per week, or $1,000 per month. This tiered security approach ensures that while the country becomes more accessible to global capital, the highest standards of fraud prevention are maintained.
Industry analysts suggest that FirstBank’s rapid compliance not only reinforces its status as a market leader but also serves as a critical catalyst for Nigeria’s burgeoning tourism and diaspora-led investment sectors.
