Access Bank Plc has emerged as Nigeria’s top-ranked bank in 2025, maintaining its lead as the largest financial institution in the country by asset size, customer base, and continental reach.

The latest industry ranking, compiled by independent financial analysts and verified by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), places Access Bank ahead of all competitors with total assets exceeding ₦20 trillion, making it not just a national leader but a dominant force across Africa’s banking landscape.

Key Ranking Metrics

• Asset Base: ₦20.9 trillion (highest in Nigeria)
• Customer Base: Over 60 million active account holders
• Geographic Reach: Present in 17 African countries and key global markets including the UK, France, and China
• Digital Innovation: Recognized for cutting-edge mobile banking, agency banking, and AI-powered financial services

According to the report, Access Bank’s continued expansion under Access Holdings Plc and strategic acquisitions in East and Southern Africa helped solidify its first-place position, pushing it ahead of long-standing rivals such as Zenith Bank, First Bank, and GTCO.

Leadership Remarks

Group Chief Executive Officer of Access Holdings, Herbert Wigwe, commented on the achievement:

“This ranking validates our long-term vision of building Africa’s gateway to the world. We are not just growing in numbers but in impact — across banking, sustainability, and innovation.”

Why Access Bank Ranks No. 1

• Pan-African Strategy: Unlike traditional banks, Access Bank’s focus on regional integration gives it leverage in cross-border banking and trade finance.
• Digital Domination: The bank is one of the first in Nigeria to fully integrate AI into customer service and product offerings.
• Financial Inclusion: Through agency banking and partnerships, Access Bank has brought banking services to over 10 million previously unbanked Nigerians.
• Sustainability Leadership: It leads green finance initiatives and women-focused SME programs, earning global recognition.

Analyst Insight

Banking analyst Dr. Ladi Okonkwo noted:

“Access Bank’s transformation from a mid-tier lender two decades ago to Africa’s banking giant is unmatched. The combination of aggressive expansion, solid governance, and customer-centric innovation sets it apart.”

Looking Ahead

With plans to deepen its presence in East Africa, scale its digital bank subsidiary, and grow its non-banking ventures under Access Holdings, the bank is on track to meet its goal of becoming Africa’s most respected bank by 2030.

Access Bank’s top position in 2025 reflects a remarkable journey — from its humble beginnings in 1989 to becoming a true pan-African banking leader.