In a moment that underscores its leadership in Nigeria’s financial landscape, FirstCap Limited, a subsidiary of First HoldCo Plc, has been named Capital Markets Architect of the Year at the 2025 BusinessDay Banks and Other Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards), an honour that celebrates institutions shaping the future of finance through innovation and impact.
The recognition is more than a trophy; it’s a nod to FirstCap’s bold ideas and strategic influence in building Nigeria’s capital markets. The firm has earned a reputation for crafting investment solutions that not only drive profitability but also strengthen market resilience and promote sustainable economic growth.
Accepting the award, Ukandu E. Ukandu, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of FirstCap Limited, reflected on what the milestone represents for the company: “This award is a powerful affirmation of our commitment to innovation and excellence. Every strategy, every product, every partnership we’ve built has been driven by one goal, creating value that lasts. I dedicate this recognition to our brilliant team whose creativity and dedication continue to set us apart.”
For Ukandu, the honour is not just a celebration of past achievements, but a call to deepen FirstCap’s role in shaping the country’s investment ecosystem. “We see this as motivation to keep pushing boundaries, to design solutions that support Nigeria’s long-term growth story. The financial sector is evolving fast, and we intend to stay ahead, building systems that inspire confidence and drive sustainable prosperity,” he added.
The BAFI Awards, hosted annually by BusinessDay Media, stands as one of the most respected recognitions within Nigeria’s financial industry, spotlighting excellence, integrity, and innovation across banking, fintech, and capital markets.
With this latest accolade, FirstCap Limited strengthens its standing as a forward-thinking investment powerhouse, one that doesn’t just interpret trends, but architects the future of finance in Nigeria and beyond.
