Sterling Bank, one of Nigeria’s leading commercial banks and Africa’s most agile financial institution, has introduced Always On by Sterling—a groundbreaking feature on its OneBank platform designed to offer eligible customers up to ₦1 million in monthly advances, even when their account balances are low.
Launched on Workers’ Day 2025, Always On is part of Sterling’s ongoing mission to break down structural barriers to financial freedom and empower Nigerians to act confidently in uncertain times.
The feature is exclusive and invitation-only, available to customers who maintain an active OneBank account over time. It allows users to access instant funds to settle bills and make urgent payments without the typical delays or restrictions associated with traditional credit systems.
“This is not just about giving access to funds,” said Abubakar Suleiman, CEO of Sterling Bank. “It’s about giving our customers freedom and dignity—the confidence to act when life calls for it.”
Suleiman noted that Always On is not a conventional product but a fundamental shift in how the bank supports its customers.
“We’re building a system designed for people with grit, urgency, and dreams too big to wait,” he added. “If you’ve banked with us, you’ve earned our trust—and now our backing.”
Always On is the latest addition to Sterling’s growing list of customer-focused initiatives. In April, the bank eliminated all transfer fees across the OneBank platform—returning an estimated ₦13 billion to users—and previously launched the Free Bus Ride campaign to ease transportation burdens for commuters during economic hardship.
These programs are powered by SeaBaas, Nigeria’s first indigenous core banking platform, which enables Sterling to roll out innovations with greater speed and scale.
“We’re not a bank that stands on the sidelines while Nigerians hustle,” said Obinna Ukachukwu, Growth Executive, Retail and Consumer Banking. “We’ve removed the fees that slowed them down, and now we’re giving them the financial freedom to act when opportunity strikes. We’re right there with them.”
Sterling’s bold, people-first approach has garnered national recognition and inspired support from public figures across sectors, further cementing its position as a leader in redefining financial services in Nigeria.
Nigerians are encouraged to join the waitlist for Always On when it goes live later this month and get the chance to qualify for monthly relief advances of up to ₦1 million.
About Sterling Bank
Sterling Bank is a leading Nigerian commercial bank, known for its bold customer advocacy and progressive approach to financial innovation. Through its OneBank platform and the HEART of Sterling strategy—which channels investment into Healthcare, Education, Agriculture, Renewable Energy, and Transportation—Sterling delivers financial solutions that empower millions of Nigerians with dignity, mobility, and opportunity.
Learn more at sterling.ng.