FirstBank of Nigeria has rolled out cutting-edge facial biometric technology on its mobile banking platform, FirstMobile, revolutionising how customers register and activate their banking profiles—no debit card required.
This upgrade empowers users to verify their identity using facial recognition, simplifying the onboarding process and removing barriers previously tied to physical card verification.
A standout feature of this update is the anti-spoofing mechanism embedded in the system, offering robust protection against impersonation and unauthorised access.
The introduction of this functionality marks a major enhancement in FirstMobile’s user interface and experience, reducing dependence on plastic cards and making mobile banking more accessible and secure for a diverse range of customers.
“With these new services now live on FirstMobile, we are confident that we will significantly enhance our customers’ digital experience,” said Chukwuma Ezirim, Group Executive, E-Business and Retail Products Division at FirstBank.
The facial biometric solution is inclusive by design. It caters to new users without debit cards, Nigerians living abroad with limited access to physical banking services, individuals who have misplaced or damaged their cards, and users who prefer cardless banking. It also supports those who experience verification issues due to technical problems or expired cards.
This expansion in verification options ensures that users can access essential financial services—such as money transfers, bill payments, and other digital operations—with enhanced convenience and speed.
“We understand the importance of keeping up with the evolving digital landscape, and we are dedicated to providing our customers with cutting-edge solutions that make banking simpler, faster, and more accessible. Our goal is to ensure that every interaction with FirstBank enhances customer satisfaction and builds long-lasting relationships,” Ezirim added.
The latest release of the FirstMobile app includes several upgraded features, such as:
Facial recognition for sign-up and device activation
Virtual credit cards for safer online purchases
Instant credit card activation
Flexible salary advance plans with up to three months for repayment
General performance improvements and bug fixes
Customers are encouraged to download or update the FirstMobile app via the Google Play Store or Apple App Store to explore these new features.
FirstBank emphasised that this innovation represents a strategic shift toward inclusive, secure, and cardless mobile banking, replacing the old requirement for card-based registration with a streamlined, user-friendly alternative.
