EXHIBIT 99

                                  PRESS RELEASE
                                  -------------

                   1ST BERGEN BANCORP ANNOUNCES STOCK BUYBACK


     Wood-Ridge, New Jersey (February 5, 1998) . . . 1st Bergen Bancorp
announced today that its Board of Directors has adopted a stock buyback program
pursuant to which the Company will repurchase up to 5% of its outstanding common
stock. Repurchases will be made in the open market from time to time or as
otherwise permitted by applicable regulations. The Company has received all
necessary regulatory clearances from the Office of Thrift Supervision to
commence this buyback program.

     William M. Brickman, President and Chief Executive Officer of 1st Bergen
Bancorp, said that "This stock buyback program is a part of our continuing
effort to enhance shareholder value and a prudent use of capital."

     1st Bergen Bancorp is the holding company for South Bergen Savings Bank.
South Bergen Savings Bank operates a traditional community thrift business from
its main office in Wood-Ridge, New Jersey, and its branches in East Rutherford,
Wanaque and Montville, New Jersey.






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