Sterling Bank to give Nigerians N1m extra every month

Sterling Bank, one of Nigeria’s leading commercial banks and a pioneer in agile financial innovation, has announced AlwaysOn, a bold new feature on its OneBank platform that offers eligible customers up to ₦1 million extra every month, even when their account balances are low.

Unveiled on Workers’ Day 2025, the initiative aims to eliminate financial barriers and empower Nigerians to navigate uncertainty with confidence and dignity.

AlwaysOn is a specialized, invitation-only feature designed for customers who have maintained active OneBank accounts over time. It provides instant financial support—an advance that allows users to pay bills or complete urgent transactions without delays or the hassles typical of traditional credit systems.

“This is more than just providing money,” said Abubakar Suleiman, CEO of Sterling Bank. “It’s about restoring freedom, dignity, and trust. We want our customers to move boldly—because life won’t wait.”

Suleiman emphasized that AlwaysOn is not just another banking product, but a strategic evolution in how the bank supports its customers.

“We’re building a financial system for people with grit, urgency, and ambition. If you’ve stayed loyal to us, you’ve earned our trust—and now our backing,” he added.

This launch builds on Sterling’s broader mission to create a fairer and more responsive financial ecosystem. Recent initiatives like the Zero Transfer Fees campaign—which saved Nigerians an estimated ₦13 billion in April—and the Free Bus Ride scheme for workers reflect this vision.

Together, these efforts showcase Sterling’s people-first approach, now made possible by the deployment of SeaBaas, Nigeria’s first indigenous core banking platform.

“We’re not here to watch from the sidelines while Nigerians hustle,” said Obinna Ukachukwu, Growth Executive for Retail and Consumer Banking. “We scrapped the fees. Now, we’re giving them the financial power to act when opportunity knocks. We’re right there with them.”

The bank has received widespread public praise and growing national recognition for its progressive stance. Influential voices across business, media, and civil society have applauded Sterling’s role in redefining modern banking in Nigeria.

Nigerians are encouraged to join the waitlist for AlwaysOn when it officially opens later this month and potentially qualify for up to ₦1 million in monthly relief advances.

Sterling Bank is a leading Nigerian commercial bank committed to transforming lives through bold financial solutions. Known for initiatives like free local transfers and accessible credit, the bank continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible in banking. Through its HEART of Sterling strategy, the bank channels investments into Healthcare, Education, Agriculture, Renewable Energy, and Transportation, creating lasting impact across sectors.