First, let’s give credit where it’s due: First Bank has made local transfers ridiculously smooth. If you’re sending money from another Nigerian bank, you just need the 10-digit account number. Yes, that’s it.
No branch code. No sort-code brain teasers. You type in the number, and bam—their name pops up like a magic trick. I swear, it’s the closest I’ve ever felt to being a wizard.
But what if you’re sending from outside Nigeria? That’s where Kemi’s panic attack started. Don’t worry, I’ve got you.
The International Wire: Don't Let the Name Scare You
Sending money from abroad to First Bank is like using a really fancy flashlight: it looks complicated, but you just flip the switch. You’ll need the SWIFT code for FBN (it’s FBNINGLA—memorize it, or just screenshot it).
You also need the bank’s address, which is usually 35 Marina, Lagos. But here’s the kicker: double-check with your recipient. Some branches have secondary codes, and you don’t want your cash taking a detour to a boring vault.
Oh, and add the beneficiary’s full name exactly as it’s on the bank account. No middle names? Don’t invent one. The bank will laugh at you—digitally, of course.
Apps That Make It Feel Like Cheating
You don’t need to visit a dusty bank hall. Use WorldRemit or Remitly for speed. I used Remitly last week to send money to my cousin’s FBN account, and it arrived in under five minutes.
FNB | How to TRANSFER MONEY to your Airtel or MTN Using your Phone
Seriously, I was still sipping my coffee when she texted: “Money received, thanks, now leave me alone.” The efficiency was almost rude.
If you’re a U.S. user, PayPal now connects to Nigerian banks, but it takes 1-3 business days. Plan ahead, or your brother might call you twenty times. Your call.
