Port Harcourt, Rivers State — The Niger Delta Advancement Awards (NDAA) 8.0 continues to celebrate the pillars of economic growth and innovation in Nigeria's oil-rich region. This prestigious event honors outstanding contributions across the nine Niger Delta states: Abia, Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross River, Delta, Edo, Imo, Ondo, and Rivers.
Powered by Juvenis Magazine/TV, the awards ceremony is set for Sunday, February 8, 2026, at The Arena Event Centre, GRA Phase 2, Port Harcourt. The red carpet opens at 4:00 PM, followed by the main event at 5:00 PM. With 56 categories and over 840 nominees highlighting exceptional achievements in 2025, NDAA 8.0 showcases the region's progress in leadership, business, entertainment, and finance.
Alexa News Network Limited (Alexa.ng), a prominent independent digital news platform dedicated to credible journalism and regional advocacy, is proud to serve as an official media partner. This partnership amplifies stories of financial strength, inclusion, and development in the Niger Delta.
The Bank of the Year category features 15 leading Nigerian banks with significant presence and impact in the region. These institutions have excelled in digital innovation, customer service, SME support, financial inclusion, corporate banking, and sustainable growth, contributing to economic stability and prosperity in the Niger Delta.
Here are detailed profiles of the nominees:
1. First Bank
Established in 1894 as Nigeria's oldest bank, FirstBank remains a cornerstone of financial services with the widest branch network nationwide (over 750 branches). In 2025, it was recognized as Best Private Bank in Nigeria and Africa for Sustainable Investing by Global Finance Awards, Best SME Bank in Nigeria and Africa by TAB Global, and Most Innovative Banking Brand by Global Brands Magazine. The bank excelled in large corporates, growing its client base by 14% and revenues by 26%, while its digital platform processed over ₦10.3 trillion in transactions.
2. Access Bank
As one of Nigeria's largest banks by assets (over ₦32 trillion), Access Bank leads in transaction banking and financial inclusion through its extensive agent network. It won Bank of the Year Nigeria 2025 at The Banker Awards and Best Transaction Bank in Nigeria by Euromoney. Known for digital platforms like PrimusPlus and initiatives like the Access Clean Water Project serving thousands in communities, Access maintains a strong footprint in the South-South and South-East.
3. Zenith Bank
A consistent performer, Zenith Bank was named Best Bank in Nigeria by Global Finance Best Banks Awards 2025 (fifth time in six years) and Euromoney Awards for Excellence 2025. It achieved a 67% increase in profit before tax to ₦1.3 trillion in 2024, with strong digital focus, including awards for website design and technology trailblazing at Nexus 2025. Zenith's profitability and customer-centric services make it a top choice in the Niger Delta.
4. United Bank for Africa (UBA)
With operations across Africa, UBA emphasizes SME support and regional expansion. It ranks high in customer deposits and asset size, maintaining a robust presence in Rivers, Delta, and Akwa Ibom. UBA's focus on digital innovation and cross-border services supports trade and economic activities in the Niger Delta.
5. Guaranty Trust Bank (GTB)
Under GTCO, GTBank is renowned for innovation, customer experience, and high profitability. It tops rankings in efficiency and digital banking, with strong branches in major Niger Delta cities like Port Harcourt and Warri. GTB's commitment to excellence positions it as a leader in retail and corporate services.
6. Fidelity Bank
Rapidly growing, Fidelity Bank has expanded its footprint with innovative products for SMEs and individuals. It meets CBN capital requirements and focuses on digital transformation, serving communities in Edo, Delta, and Rivers effectively.
7. Stanbic IBTC Bank
A subsidiary of Standard Bank Group, Stanbic IBTC excels in wealth management, investment banking, and corporate finance. It offers premium services with a growing presence in the South-South, supporting high-net-worth clients and businesses in the region.
8. First City Monument Bank (FCMB)
FCMB is known for innovative retail banking, SME financing, and digital solutions. With branches across the Niger Delta, it promotes financial inclusion through accessible products and community initiatives.
9. Eco Bank
As a pan-African bank, EcoBank leads in customer deposits (over ₦36 trillion in H1 2025) and cross-border services. Its extensive network supports trade in oil-rich states like Bayelsa and Rivers.
10. Wema Bank
Pioneering digital banking with ALAT, Wema focuses on tech-driven services and youth empowerment, with expanding operations in the region.
11. Union Bank
Union Bank provides reliable commercial and retail services, with a focus on rebuilding and growth in the South-East and South-South.
12. Standard Chartered Bank
An international bank with expertise in corporate and investment banking, Standard Chartered supports major energy projects in the Niger Delta.
13. Sterling Bank
Known for heart-centered banking, Sterling emphasizes sustainable development, agriculture, and SME support across the region.
14. Jaiz Bank
Nigeria's leading non-interest bank, Jaiz offers ethical Islamic banking products, serving diverse communities in the Niger Delta.
15. Parallex Bank
A rising player focused on digital innovation and efficient services, Parallex contributes to financial accessibility in emerging markets.
These nominees represent the best in Nigerian banking, driving growth, inclusion, and stability in the Niger Delta. Public voting is ongoing via the official NDAA website.
The Bank of the Year winner will be unveiled at the February 8, 2026, ceremony. Alexa News Network Limited (Alexa.ng) will deliver extensive coverage to honor these institutions and encourage continued excellence in the financial sector.
