UBA and Access Bank lead Nigeria’s strongest brands in 2025

United Bank for Africa (UBA) and Access Bank have emerged as Nigeria’s strongest brands in 2025, according to Brand Finance’s latest “Nigeria 25 2025” report released this week.

UBA climbed from ninth place last year to claim the top spot in brand strength, achieving a Brand Strength Index (BSI) score of 92.4 out of 100 and earning the prestigious AAA+ rating, the highest accolade given by Brand Finance. This marks a significant recognition of UBA’s strong consumer trust, brand familiarity, and market positioning both within Nigeria and across Africa.

Meanwhile, Access Bank retained its position as Nigeria’s most valuable brand for the fourth consecutive year, with its brand value more than doubling to ₦893.3 billion. The bank’s impressive growth reflects its solid financial performance and strategic expansion efforts.

“UBA’s rise to the strongest brand in Nigeria highlights the bank’s commitment to innovation and customer loyalty,” said Israel Ojoko, a financial journalist who covered the report. “Access Bank’s continued dominance in brand value underscores its leading role in Nigeria’s banking sector.”

Other financial institutions also featured prominently in the rankings. First Bank of Nigeria moved up to second place in brand strength with a BSI score of 92.1, while Guaranty Trust Holding Company (GTCO) secured third place. Zenith Bank and Stanbic IBTC also recorded notable gains in brand value and strength.

The report highlights the dominance of financial services, which account for 59% of the total brand value among Nigeria’s top 25 brands, which shows the sector’s vital role in the country’s economic growth.