FirstBank has announced the confirmation of Olayinka Thomas Ijabiyi as its substantive Group Head, Marketing and Corporate Communications, marking a strategic leadership consolidation in its ongoing transformation and growth agenda.
The appointment, which takes immediate effect, underscores the bank’s continued emphasis on strong corporate governance, brand strengthening, and enhanced stakeholder engagement across its operating markets.
Ijabiyi, a seasoned marketing and communications expert with over 25 years of professional experience, has been acting in the role since December 2024 before his formal confirmation. He brings extensive expertise in brand transformation, corporate communications strategy, and stakeholder engagement across key sectors including financial services, telecommunications, media, and international development.
Olayinka Thomas Ijabiyi joined FirstBank in 2011 and has since held several strategic leadership positions within the Marketing and Corporate Communications Department. These include Head of Brand Strategy and Special Projects, Head of Digital Marketing, and Head of Brand and Stakeholder Management.
In his new substantive role, he is responsible for driving integrated marketing and corporate communications across the FirstBank Group. His mandate includes overseeing brand and reputation management, executive positioning, corporate responsibility and sustainability initiatives, as well as strategic communications aligned with the bank’s business objectives and long-term aspirations.
Before joining FirstBank, Ijabiyi built a robust career across several leading organizations, including the British Council, MultiChoice, MTN, and Etisalat Nigeria, where he contributed significantly to brand development, corporate communications, and digital transformation initiatives.
He is widely regarded for his strategic leadership and ability to translate business goals into impactful communications and marketing strategies. Over the years, he has led several high-impact brand campaigns, including milestone anniversary projects and brand refresh initiatives, while consistently delivering operational efficiencies and strengthening brand equity.
Academically, he 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 (NIMN) and a member of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), among other professional bodies.
