NIGERIA’S banking sector is experiencing a wave of recapitalisation activities as lenders respond to the Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN) new minimum capital requirements.
While some banks have made notable progress in raising the required funds, others are at varying stages of compliance, according to market intelligence reports released last week.
The recapitalisation directive is part of CBN’s strategy to strengthen the financial sector, enhance stability, and position banks to better support economic growth. In response, several banks have initiated capital-raise programs through rights issues, private placements, and other funding mechanisms.
Wema Bank is looking to raise N200 billion, split between a N150 billion Rights Issue—awaiting regulatory approval from the Securities and Exchange Commission—and a N50 billion Private Placement that is currently ongoing. Meanwhile, Guaranty Trust Holding Company (GTCO) is expected to reveal its recapitalization roadmap after its Annual General Meeting scheduled for April 24, 2025.
First Bank Holdings (First Holdco) has advanced its recapitalization drive, having successfully completed a N150 billion Rights Issue that was oversubscribed by 25%, bringing total subscriptions to N187.6 billion. The bank is now moving forward with a N350 billion Private Placement.
Fidelity Bank is also in motion, entering the second phase of its capital-raise journey with a Private Placement approved by the CBN, expected to launch in the second half of 2025.
United Bank for Africa (UBA) is anticipated to announce its recapitalization strategy before the end of the first half of 2025, likely after its upcoming Annual General Meeting. Access Holdings is preparing to unveil the second tranche of its capital-raise initiative, while Ecobank Nigeria is expected to release a detailed plan to comply with CBN requirements.
Analysts say the varying pace of these efforts reflects both the unique strategies of individual banks and the broader challenges of capital mobilization in the current economic climate. However, they agree that banks that successfully raise fresh capital will be better positioned to expand, invest in technology, and enhance resilience in a rapidly evolving financial landscape.
The coming months will be critical as the industry inches toward full compliance with the CBN directive—reshaping Nigeria’s banking hierarchy and potentially determining long-term market winners.
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