UAE’s First Abu Dhabi Bank to Open Lagos Office, Expands Footprint in Nigeria

In a strategic move to deepen its footprint in sub-Saharan Africa, First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB), the United Arab Emirates’ largest lender, has announced plans to open a representative office in Nigeria, positioning the nation as a key hub for its regional expansion.
The Lagos office is expected to be operational in the coming weeks, Martin Tricaud, Group Head of Wholesale Banking at FAB, revealed on Monday during the Investopia Africa Conference in Lagos. The initiative underscores the bank’s confidence in Nigeria’s economic potential and its growing importance as Africa’s most populous market.
FAB, recognized globally as one of the highest-rated financial institutions, has been steadily increasing its presence in Nigeria, particularly in infrastructure and energy financing. The bank recently joined forces with the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) to provide $1.126 billion in funding for Phase 1, Section 2 of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, a flagship project aimed at improving connectivity and boosting economic activity along Nigeria’s southern corridor.
Tricaud emphasized that the Lagos office will not only facilitate FAB’s investment activities but also support partnerships with local financial institutions and corporations, enabling the bank to contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s long-term growth story.
“This is a significant step for FAB as we expand into one of Africa’s most dynamic economies. Our presence in Lagos will help us support large-scale infrastructure projects, energy sector investments, and regional trade flows more efficiently,” Tricaud stated.
The bank’s Nigerian entry aligns with a broader trend of Middle Eastern financial institutions increasing engagement across Africa, drawn by the continent’s infrastructure needs, demographic advantage, and growing markets. Analysts suggest that the move could pave the way for additional cross-border investments and partnerships, enhancing Nigeria’s position as a regional financial hub.
With Nigeria poised to play a central role in FAB’s sub-Saharan strategy, the upcoming Lagos office is expected to serve as a launchpad for further initiatives across West Africa, including project financing, advisory services, and corporate banking solutions tailored to local market needs.

According to the report, First Abu Dhabi Bank, the UAE’s largest lender, plans to open a Lagos office, strengthening its presence in Nigeria and sub-Saharan Africa while supporting major infrastructure and energy projects.

The source added that the Lagos office will serve as part of its expansion into Nigeria, backing major infrastructure projects and regional growth in sub-Saharan Africa.