Sterling Bank to give customers up to N1 million every month through new 'AlwaysOn' feature,—no credit checks or collateral required. Find out if you qualify

‎In a groundbreaking move aimed at reshaping the Nigerian financial landscape, Sterling Bank has launched AlwaysOn, a new feature granting select customers access to up to ₦1 million monthly—regardless of their account balance. Introduced on May 1, 2025, AlwaysOn is the latest chapter in Sterling Bank’s mission to empower Nigerians financially during uncertain times.

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‎Designed as an exclusive, invitation-only feature, AlwaysOn is available to customers who maintain an active OneBank account over a certain period. According to the bank, it is not merely a product but a fundamental shift in how Sterling engages with its customers. Sterling Bank CEO, Abubakar Suleiman, emphasized that the feature reflects the bank's commitment to “freedom and dignity,” offering users the trust and flexibility to act decisively when opportunities or emergencies arise.

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‎“This isn’t about credit; it’s about backing our customers when it matters most,” said Suleiman. “AlwaysOn is part of a broader push to eliminate traditional barriers in the financial system and foster a more inclusive, empowering banking experience.”

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‎Building on Bold Reforms

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‎AlwaysOn comes just weeks after Sterling Bank eliminated transfer charges on all local online transactions—a bold step that returned over ₦13 billion to customers in April alone. That initiative positioned Sterling as the first major Nigerian bank to completely waive such fees, sparking a national conversation around fairer banking practices.

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‎Sterling’s Growth Executive, Obinna Ukachukwu, reinforced the bank’s customer-first strategy. “Accessing your money shouldn’t come with a penalty,” he said. “We’re redefining what it means to bank in Nigeria.”

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‎The bank’s fee-free policy has gained praise from public figures, including former Aviation Minister Osita Chidoka, who pledged to open a Sterling account in support. He urged other banks to follow suit, calling the charges “minor revenue streams that cost customers dearly.”

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‎A Broader Financial Ecosystem

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‎The AlwaysOn initiative complements other community-focused programs led by the bank, such as the Free Bus Ride initiative, which provides Lagos commuters with complimentary transportation during rush hour. These programs form part of Sterling’s broader mission to reduce daily financial pressures and support mobility—both economic and physical—for everyday Nigerians.

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‎Suleiman underscored that AlwaysOn is part of a growing ecosystem aimed at creating momentum and enabling people to pursue their dreams without waiting for ideal circumstances.

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‎With this suite of initiatives, Sterling Bank continues to push the envelope of what is possible in the banking sector, setting a precedent for innovation, inclusion, and bold leadership in Nigeria’s financial services industry.