Wema Bank Celebrates 80 Years of Legacy and Innovation
Paving the Way for a Future Filled with Possibilities
Wema Bank, Nigeria’s pioneer in digital banking and the country’s oldest indigenous financial institution, commemorated its 80th anniversary on Friday, May 2nd, 2025. Founded on May 2nd, 1945, as Agbonmagbe Bank Limited, the bank has grown from a modest single-branch operation dedicated to empowering local Nigerians into a leading force in Nigeria’s banking sector.
Over the decades, Wema Bank has continually expanded its impact—bridging financial gaps for underserved communities, providing innovative solutions to support businesses, and creating platforms for industry growth. Its legacy of meaningful contributions spans eight decades, serving millions of customers through its extensive network of over 150 branches and the innovative ALAT digital banking app, which pioneered Africa’s first fully digital bank.
Expressing heartfelt appreciation, Wema Bank’s Managing Director/CEO, Moruf Oseni, emphasized the bank’s ongoing commitment to excellence. “Celebrating 80 years is a testament to our deep roots in Nigeria’s history, industry, and society. Since our inception during colonial times, we have remained steadfast in our mission to support indigenous businesses and demonstrate that Nigerian-owned institutions can endure and drive transformation,” Oseni stated.
He further added, “I am grateful to everyone—customers, shareholders, employees, partners, and stakeholders—who has contributed to our journey. Wema Bank is built to last, for you, and with you. As we look to the future, our promise remains: We Are With You, All The Way.”
To mark this historic milestone, a grand Wema at 80 Gala Night was held in Lagos at 6 p.m. on May 2nd, featuring performances by Afrobeats stars Davido and Wande Coal, Fuji legend Ayuba, vocal sensation Yinka Davies, and 9ice among other celebrities and dignitaries. The event, themed ‘Timeless Elegance,’ celebrated eight decades of resilience, innovation, and impact.
For those unable to attend in person, the celebrations were accessible via live broadcast on the bank’s YouTube channel and select national TV stations at 7 p.m., allowing everyone to be part of this momentous occasion.