Background of the Study:
The COVID-19 pandemic has dramatically reshaped the global economy, with profound implications for the retail banking sector. In Bayelsa State, FCMB has experienced a significant transformation in customer behavior, service delivery, and operational strategies as a result of the pandemic. Post-COVID-19, banks are re-evaluating their business models, with an increased emphasis on digital transformation, remote service delivery, and enhanced risk management practices (Ibrahim, 2024). The crisis accelerated the adoption of digital banking channels, prompting banks to invest in technology that supports online transactions, mobile banking, and contactless payments. FCMB’s response to the pandemic has included an expansion of its digital platforms, adoption of agile operational practices, and implementation of stringent health and safety measures in physical branches. These changes have redefined customer expectations and set new benchmarks for service quality in a post-pandemic world. The future of retail banking now hinges on the ability to integrate digital innovations with traditional banking strengths, ensuring resilience, customer satisfaction, and competitive advantage in an uncertain economic environment. This study explores how FCMB is navigating the post-COVID-19 landscape, assessing the long-term impact of pandemic-induced changes on retail banking operations and customer behavior. The research evaluates trends in digital adoption, changes in customer preferences, and strategic shifts in service delivery, providing a comprehensive analysis of the future trajectory of retail banking in a post-pandemic context (Okafor, 2023).
Statement of the Problem:
Despite the accelerated digital transformation driven by the COVID-19 pandemic, FCMB in Bayelsa State faces challenges in adapting to the new banking environment. While digital channels have expanded, issues such as digital literacy gaps, cybersecurity vulnerabilities, and the lack of personalized service in virtual platforms continue to affect customer satisfaction. Additionally, the rapid shift to online banking has left some traditional customers struggling to adjust, creating a divide in customer experience. The bank’s physical branches, though redesigned for safety, now contend with reduced foot traffic, raising concerns about the optimal allocation of resources. Furthermore, the long-term sustainability of pandemic-driven changes is uncertain, as evolving customer expectations and potential future disruptions necessitate continuous adaptation. This study aims to identify the challenges that FCMB faces in the post-COVID-19 era, evaluate their impact on service delivery and customer retention, and propose strategies to bridge the gap between digital and traditional banking. The objective is to ensure that FCMB can sustain the gains achieved during the pandemic while addressing persistent issues to build a resilient and customer-centric banking model (Chinwe, 2023).
Objectives of the Study:
• To analyze the impact of COVID-19 on the evolution of retail banking at FCMB.
• To identify challenges in digital adoption and customer experience post-pandemic.
• To propose strategies for integrating digital and traditional banking practices effectively.
Research Questions:
• How has the COVID-19 pandemic reshaped retail banking at FCMB?
• What challenges persist in digital adoption and customer satisfaction post-pandemic?
• What strategies can optimize the integration of digital and physical banking services?
Research Hypotheses:
• H₁: Pandemic-induced digital transformation has significantly improved operational efficiency.
• H₂: Digital literacy and cybersecurity issues negatively affect customer satisfaction post-COVID-19.
• H₃: Integrated digital and traditional strategies enhance customer retention in the post-pandemic era.
Scope and Limitations of the Study:
This study focuses on FCMB’s retail banking operations in Bayelsa State post-COVID-19, using customer surveys, digital usage data, and performance reports. Limitations include the evolving nature of the pandemic’s impact and potential response biases.
Definitions of Terms:
• Retail Banking: Banking services provided directly to consumers.
• Digital Transformation: The integration of digital technology into all aspects of banking operations.
• Post-COVID-19: The period following the global pandemic marked by changes in economic and consumer behavior.
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