Providus Bank has been recognised as one of Nigeria’s best workplaces in the banking sector for 2025, according to a new report by Great Place to Work (GPTW), the global authority on workplace culture.
The honour reflects the bank’s dedication to building a positive, supportive environment for its workforce and strengthening employee trust, a factor increasingly regarded as essential in today’s job market.
Founded by Walter Akpani in 2016, Providus Bank evolved from United Mortgage Bank Limited into a digitally driven institution with a strong focus on its people. The recognition is based primarily on confidential feedback from employees, giving weight to how staff experience the workplace rather than external perceptions.
The accolade comes at a time when workplace priorities are shifting. A 2024 Deloitte survey revealed that well-being and flexibility now rank higher than pay for many professionals, making employee-centred policies a key driver of retention.
Kingsley Ogirri, Group Head of Human Resources at Providus Bank, described the award as confirmation that the bank’s initiatives are resonating. “From opportunities for growth, to wellness programmes, to creating a space where everyone feels valued, our policies are making a difference,” he said.
In Nigeria’s banking industry, where long working hours and intense performance targets have often contributed to stress, the recognition stands out. While fintech firms frequently earn praise for progressive workplace cultures, Providus Bank’s achievement suggests that traditional banks are also adapting through flexible work options, mental health support, and professional development.
Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Walter Akpani, described the award as a “tribute to the hard work, creativity, and dedication” of staff, adding that employees remain “at the very heart” of the bank’s success.
According to GPTW, the best workplaces share a defining trait: high levels of trust between staff and management. This trust not only improves retention but also strengthens client service, particularly in sectors where turnover is costly.
For Providus Bank, the recognition serves both as validation of progress and a spur to continue building its reputation as an employer of choice in Nigeria’s financial services industry.