CBN Wraps Banking Recapitalisation: ₦4.65tn Raised to Boost Sector Resilience

By Ifeyinwa Ike

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has concluded its banking sector recapitalisation programme, launched in March 2024, with banks raising ₦4.65 trillion in new capital, 72.55% local, 27.45% international.

CBN Governor, Olayemi Cardoso hailed the effort: “It has strengthened the capital base of Nigerian banks, reinforcing resilience to support economic growth and withstand shocks.”

A statement co-signed by the Director, Corporate Communications, Hakama Sidi Ali and Olubukola Akinwunmi, Director Banking Supervision on April 1, disclosed that 33 banks meet revised minimum capital requirements; a few ongoing through regulatory processes

Capital adequacy ratios (CAR) exceed Basel benchmarks (10% for regional/national banks, 15% for international).

Improved asset quality, transparency, and buffers via stress testing.

All banks stayed fully operational, ensuring no service disruptions for customers.
Enhanced Oversight:

CBN’s prudential guidelines and risk-based supervision safeguard gains in governance, risk management, and stability positioning the sector for sustained lending and shock absorption.

The recap built a resilient system inspiring depositor/investor confidence.