The Central Bank of Nigeria gave Nigerian banks a deadline of March 31, 2026, to increase their capital base.
In simple terms, the CBN asked banks to “be financially stronger.”
The required capital depends on the type of banking licence:
- International banks must have at least ₦500 billion
- National banks must have at least ₦200 billion
- Regional banks must have at least ₦50 billion
- Merchant and non-interest banks have their own specific minimums
Now, let’s break down who has met the requirement in plain language.
Banks That Operate Internationally (₦500 Billion Minimum)
These are the big players with operations outside Nigeria. They needed the highest capital.
They have met the requirement:
- Access Bank Plc
- Zenith Bank Plc
- Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc
- United Bank for Africa Plc
- First HoldCo Plc
- Fidelity Bank Plc
These banks raised money from investors or strengthened their financial structure to meet the target.
Banks That Operate Nationwide (₦200 Billion Minimum)
These banks operate across Nigeria but may not have full international licences.
They have met the ₦200 billion requirement:
- Wema Bank Plc
- Ecobank Nigeria
- Stanbic IBTC Holdings Plc
- Citibank Nigeria Limited
- Standard Chartered Bank Nigeria Limited
- Globus Bank Limited
- PremiumTrust Bank
Regional Banks (₦50 Billion Minimum)
These banks operate in specific regions within Nigeria.
Reported compliant banks:
- Unity Bank Plc
- Providus Bank Limited
Merchant Banks
These banks focus more on investment banking and corporate finance than on everyday savings accounts.
Compliant:
- FSDH Merchant Bank
- Greenwich Merchant Bank
- Nova Merchant Bank
- Rand Merchant Bank Nigeria
Non-Interest (Islamic) Banks
These banks operate without charging interest traditionally.
Compliant:
- Jaiz Bank Plc
- Lotus Bank Limited
What This Means for You
If you bank with any of these institutions, it means:
- Your bank is financially stronger
- It has more capital to absorb economic shocks
- It is better positioned for growth
This recapitalisation move is about long-term stability for Nigeria’s banking system.
Stronger banks mean a stronger economy.
