EXHIBIT 99

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

                   1ST BERGEN BANCORP ANNOUNCES STOCK BUYBACK


         Wood-Ridge, New Jersey (May 27, 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 percent 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 "The continuance of our stock buyback program is an
integral part of our ongoing efforts to enhance shareholder value and a prudent
use of the Company's 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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