Nigeria’s leading banks are extending their physical and digital reach nationwide, even as the industry moves deeper into technology-driven services. First Bank remains the country’s most widespread lender, operating 766 branches as of the first half of 2025.
Data compiled by Nairametrics Research from official bank websites and branch locators show that First Bank, UBA, and Zenith Bank remain the most visible lenders across the country, each maintaining hundreds of branches across the country. Their presence explains how traditional banking networks still matter in a market where many customers rely on face-to-face service.
While mobile apps, USSD codes, and online platforms have transformed banking convenience, the country’s top lenders continue to invest in branch infrastructure to sustain personal connections and reach underserved communities. Notably, most banks have their largest concentration of branches in Lagos, with significantly fewer in northern states such as Zamfara, Yobe, and Taraba
Polaris Bank and Unity/Providus Bank would have ranked 6th and 7th with 253 and 236 branches, however, the bank’s 2024 and H1 2025 financial statements were unavailable at the time of this report.
Below is a breakdown of the 10 banks with the largest branch networks in Nigeria.
Top 10 banks with the highest branches in the country
Wema Bank, Nigeria’s pioneer digital bank and operator of ALAT in 2017 maintains 153 physical branches across the country supported by 2,342 staff. Although banks like GTB, First Bank, Access and Zenith already had mobile banking apps before 2017
The bulk of its outlets are in Lagos (44), Ogun (21), and Oyo (16), while Zamfara, Benue, and Kogi host only one each.
Wema’s assets grew to N3.97 trillion in H1 2025, from N3.59 trillion in FY 2024, and deposits reached N2.60 trillion.
Despite its digital-first reputation, Wema’s physical presence in the Southwest support hybrid banking and SME penetration.
The information provided is quite educative.