Access Holdings Plc is set to scale back its equity positions in certain international subsidiaries following new regulatory limits imposed by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), marking a significant recalibration of its global expansion strategy.
Under the revised framework, the CBN has capped banks’ equity exposure to foreign subsidiaries at 10% of shareholders’ funds, a move designed to mitigate systemic risk and reinforce capital adequacy across Nigeria’s banking sector. The directive gives lenders a 12-month compliance window.
Speaking during an investor call in Lagos, Access Bank CEO Roosevelt Ogbonna confirmed that the group will gradually dilute stakes in select offshore units or introduce strategic investors, while maintaining its operational footprint in key markets.
Policy Shift
The policy shift comes as Nigerian banks increasingly expand across borders, exposing themselves to currency volatility, regulatory fragmentation, and geopolitical risk.
Access Bank, with operations spanning over 20 countries across Africa, Europe, and Asia, has been one of the most aggressive in this outward push.
The directive reflects a broader tightening stance under CBN Governor Olayemi Cardoso, under CBN Governor Olayemi Cardosowho has prioritized financial system stability and stronger balance sheets.
Analysts interpret the cap as a deliberate effort to rein in excessive foreign exposure while encouraging banks to optimize capital allocation.
Access Holdings ‘ Mixed Q1 2026 Financial Performance
Access Holdings’ first-quarter results highlight the complexity of the current operating environment:
Interest income declined 9% to ₦895.03 billion
Net interest income dropped 26.7% to ₦338.86 billion
Profit after tax rose to ₦216.54 billion, supported by a 19% increase in non-interest income to ₦444.68 billion
Total assets stood at ₦53.44 trillion, with shareholders’ equity at ₦4.39 trillion
Impairment charges reached ₦73.81 billion
