FirstBank Confirms Olayinka Ijabiyi As Group Head, Marketing, Corporate Communications
By Rashidat Okunlade
FirstBank of Nigeria Limited has confirmed the appointment of Olayinka Thomas Ijabiyi as its substantive Group Head, Marketing and Corporate Communications, with immediate effect.
The bank said the appointment reinforces its commitment to strong corporate governance at a critical stage in its growth and transformation agenda.
Ijabiyi, a seasoned marketing and corporate communications professional, brings over 25 years of experience spanning financial services, telecommunications, media, and international development. Since joining FirstBank in 2011, he has played a central role in shaping the institution’s brand and communications architecture.
He had served in an acting capacity as Group Head since December 2024, overseeing integrated marketing and corporate communications strategies across the bank’s markets. His remit includes brand and reputation management, executive positioning, corporate responsibility and sustainability, as well as strategic communications aligned with the bank’s business objectives.
Prior to his confirmation, Ijabiyi held several leadership roles within the bank, including Head of Brand Strategy and Special Projects, Head of Digital Marketing, and Head of Brand and Stakeholder Management.
Before joining FirstBank, he worked with global and regional organisations such as British Council, MultiChoice Group, MTN Group, and 9mobile, where he contributed to brand development, corporate communications, and digital transformation initiatives.
Industry observers note that his track record includes leading high-impact brand campaigns, including milestone anniversary activations and brand refresh programmes that strengthened market positioning and improved operational efficiency.
Ijabiyi holds a Master’s degree in Public and International Affairs from the University of Lagos and a Bachelor’s degree in English Language from the former Ondo State University, Ado Ekiti. He is a Fellow of the National Institute of Marketing of Nigeria and a member of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations.
His confirmation is expected to further strengthen FirstBank’s brand positioning and stakeholder engagement strategy across its regional and international markets.
