Ghana’s First Atlantic Bank Secures License to Expand into Liberia

First Atlantic Bank PLC (FAB) has received regulatory approval to operate in Liberia, the Ghanaian lender said, marking a key step in its strategy to build a regional banking franchise across West Africa.

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First Atlantic Bank PLC (FAB) has received regulatory approval to operate in Liberia, the Ghanaian lender said, marking a key step in its strategy to build a regional banking franchise across West Africa.

The bank said the Liberian license reflects its “robust governance structures, operational strength and long-term strategy,” and will allow FAB to extend its customer centric model beyond Ghana.

With experience in retail, corporate and digital banking—and recognition as a two-time “Digital Bank of the Year”—FAB said it will deploy proven digital platforms and localized products to support trade, entrepreneurship and financial inclusion in Liberia.

“The move into Liberia is more than just a geographical expansion—it’s about driving impact,” the bank said in a statement, adding that service excellence, innovation and trust will guide the rollout.

The expansion follows FAB’s successful initial public offering and listing on the Ghana Stock Exchange (GSE). The bank began trading on 19 December 2025 after a combined offer of 101.7 million ordinary shares at GHS 7.30 each, raising GHS 742 million (approximately $64.6 million). Trading opened with the share price rising to GHS 7.70 on thin volumes.

Founded in 1995, First Atlantic Bank operates as a full-service universal bank across 35 branches and through ATMs, POS terminals and a growing digital platform, according to its website. The bank provides retail, SME, corporate and custodian services.

FAB is chaired by Amarquaye Armar, with Odun Odunfa serving as managing director and chief executive. Key investors include Kedari Ghana Limited (a majority shareholder), AFIG Fund II and a mix of institutional and retail shareholders following the IPO.

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