FirstBank Deepens Customer Engagement With Festive ‘DecemberIssaVybe’ Experience

 FirstBank Deepens Customer Engagement With Festive ‘DecemberIssaVybe’ Experience

By Bolaji Israel

American branding consultant and CEO of Brandstream, Scott Bedbury, once observed that enduring brands succeed by connecting with the passions and emotions of their customers. FirstBank, Nigeria’s oldest financial institution, is leaning into that philosophy—evolving from a service-driven bank into a lifestyle partner that celebrates culture, family and shared happiness.

The 131-year-old institution has built a reputation for trust, heritage and innovation. But in recent years, it has expanded its customer engagement strategy through DecemberIssaVybe—a festive-season campaign that blends entertainment, rewards and memorable experiences. From premium access to major concerts and theatre productions to comedy shows and fashion events, the initiative reinforces the bank’s commitment to appreciating and celebrating its customers.

A Season of Culture, Celebration and Connection

Each year, FirstBank enhances customer experience with seamless banking services, then elevates the energy as the festive season approaches. With DecemberIssaVybe, the bank transforms December into a cultural celebration—curating access to headline concerts, stage plays, comedy festivals and lifestyle showcases.

The initiative creates touchpoints that go beyond transactions, connecting the brand to the laughter of families at theatre nights, the excitement of music lovers at sold-out shows, and the joy of shared moments that define the holiday season.

Through this approach, FirstBank positions itself not just as a financial institution but as a brand that feels the pulse of its customers and the rhythm of Nigerian culture.

Supporting Nigeria’s Creative Economy

DecemberIssaVybe also reflects FirstBank’s continued investment in Nigeria’s creative and entertainment industries—critical sectors that generate jobs, shape culture, and promote the Nigerian story globally. By sponsoring and amplifying artistic platforms, the bank contributes to a value chain that uplifts creators and delights audiences.

The initiative has continued to feature some of the country’s biggest shows and talents, offering customers experiences that highlight the vibrancy of the Nigerian creative scene.

Rewarding Loyalty Through Memorable Experiences

Acting Group Head, Marketing and Corporate Communications, FirstBank, Olayinka Ijabiyi, said the campaign is designed to deepen emotional connection with customers. According to him, banking today must go beyond financial transactions to provide moments where families and communities can celebrate life together.

Ijabiyi emphasised that the bank is intentional about rewarding loyalty in ways that resonate personally with customers—whether through VIP access to concerts, exclusive theatre tickets or premium lifestyle events.

“DecemberIssaVybe is about bringing people closer to the cultural heartbeat of Nigeria—live music, theatre, comedy, fashion and lifestyle events—while connecting them directly with the FirstBank brand,” he said.

Customers Share Their Excitement

The campaign continues to generate massive enthusiasm across social media.

One customer, Toyin Ojo, wrote on Facebook: “FirstBank made my December unforgettable! I got VIP access to see my favourite artist live — I still can’t believe it!”

Another customer, Segun Ibiyemi, shared on X: “I’ve never felt so connected to a brand. DecemberIssaVybe isn’t just about the show; it’s about the memories we made as a family.”

From families enjoying stage plays to friends bonding at concerts, the excitement shared online underscores the emotional impact of the initiative.

Strengthening Cultural Ties and Community

Beyond entertainment, DecemberIssaVybe strengthens cultural connection. By supporting concerts, theatre, comedy and lifestyle showcases, FirstBank helps promote Nigeria’s creative heritage and enrich the experiences of customers during the yuletide season.

The campaign’s success is ultimately measured in the joy it sparks—the laughter, the shared moments and the sense of belonging it fosters.

A Tradition of Joy, Loyalty and Celebration

FirstBank has turned DecemberIssaVybe into more than a festive programme; it has become a cultural phenomenon that blends entertainment, premium experiences and meaningful engagement. The initiative reinforces the bank’s belief that loyalty is built not only through financial services, but through shared memories and emotional connection.

With each edition, FirstBank reaffirms that banking is more than numbers—it is about being present in the moments that make life vibrant. And every December, through DecemberIssaVybe, the bank keeps customers vibing, smiling and connected to the rhythm of joy.