FirstBank launches inclusive banking for disabled persons with Braille, audio, and accessible ATMs to promote financial inclusion

FirstBank has announced a groundbreaking initiative to provide tailored financial services for Persons Living with Disabilities, reinforcing its commitment to financial inclusion and diversity.

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In a statement on Tuesday, the lender revealed that the new services would benefit customers who are blind, partially sighted, and physically challenged across its operations.

The effort aligns with the Central Bank of Nigeria’s financial inclusion strategy as well as the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, which advocates equal access to financial services.

Under the initiative, transaction documents will be available in Braille, audio, large print, and digital formats. ATMs will be upgraded with high-contrast screens and voice-prompt commands, while cards will feature tactile motifs and Braille inscriptions.

Enhanced soft PINs and tokens will also be provided to strengthen secure access to banking channels. Additionally, product brochures will be released in Braille and audio formats to aid customer understanding.

Patrick Akhidenor, Chief Risk Officer and Chairman of the FirstBank Sustainability Committee, stressed that accessibility was central to the bank’s mission.

“Everyone deserves access to financial services, whether physically or digitally. We are making it possible for visually impaired and physically challenged customers to manage their accounts independently and securely,” he said.

The project will be implemented in phases across all subsidiaries of the FirstBank Group. According to the lender, the move is part of shaping a future where every individual, regardless of ability, can control their financial affairs without third-party dependence.

FirstBank added that the initiative complements its broader diversity push, citing its 41:59 female-to-male employee ratio, with women occupying 37 per cent of management roles.

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The bank also highlighted the FirstBank Women Network, which seeks to increase women’s participation at all organisational levels, alongside its membership of UN Women, reflecting its commitment to equal opportunity, inclusion, and non-discrimination.