Nigeria’s banking sector is in the final stretch of its recapitalisation drive, with lenders intensifying capital actions ahead of the Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN) March 31 deadline.
Proshare analysts reported subdued industry activity in the week ended February 12, as focus shifted from fundraising announcements to regulatory validation and capital confirmation.
FCMB Group Nears International Licence Confirmation
FCMB Group is undergoing CBN verification to confirm compliance with the N500 billion minimum capital threshold for international banks, Proshare said.
The group secured a national banking licence in 2024 via an oversubscribed public offer and raised another ₦160 billion last year to retain its international status.
Analysts view the ongoing process as the final regulatory checkpoint, with success likely triggering a formal announcement of continued international operations amid tighter capital standards.
Other Major Banks Advance Plans
Sterling Bank is yet to unveil its recapitalisation strategy but faces a gap between its current ₦167 billion capital and the N200 billion requirement, with a rights issue or private placement expected.
GTCO Plc recently completed a ₦10 billion private placement, issuing 125 million shares at ₦80 apiece to a single investor. Proshare described it as a proactive buffer boost for growth, reflecting investor confidence.
First HoldCo Plc’s unaudited 2025 results revealed a heavy impairment charge that eroded earnings, underscoring asset-quality risks and the need for early planning and governance amid rising regulations.
Consolidation Speculation Grows
Market talk highlighted potential tier-1 mergers and bank investments in refineries and energy infrastructure, though unconfirmed.
Mid-tier lenders eye foreign capital and deals:
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Union Bank attracts UAE interest pending a legal dispute resolution.
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Keystone Bank draws local and foreign bids for joint acquisition.
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Polaris Bank may pursue investor recap or tier-2 merger.
Proshare’s Economic and Market Intelligence Unit noted CBN openness to M&As for resilient banks, with foreign partnerships vital for unencumbered capital despite domestic interest in distressed assets.
Fintech Race Adds Urgency
The CBN’s latest fintech report spotlights digital finance growth, urging banks to partner with fintechs for efficiency while managing competition.
Most tier-1 and tier-2 banks have met buffers, but tier-3 lenders scramble for funds or mergers. Eyes remain on confirmations like FCMB’s as the sector braces for a major reset.
