BREAKING: Four Banks Pay ₦135bn Dividends Amid Industry Challenges

Lagos — Four Nigerian banks have approved a combined dividend payout of ₦135 billion to their shareholders, even as the sector grapples with mounting regulatory and economic headwinds.

The dividend declarations come at a time when the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has tightened oversight on capital adequacy and risk management, directing banks under regulatory forbearance to suspend dividend payments, bonuses, and offshore investments until they meet minimum standards.

Industry analysts note that the move by the four lenders signals confidence in their financial strength, but also raises concerns about sustainability, given the rising burden of non-performing loans, currency volatility, and persistent inflationary pressures that continue to squeeze margins.

Banking experts say while the payouts may reassure investors in the short term, the long-term priority for the sector remains recapitalisation, strengthening of balance sheets, and compliance with evolving regulatory requirements.

The banks are expected to provide further details on their earnings performance and capital positions in the coming weeks as shareholders assess the trade-off between immediate returns and the need for stability in a turbulent economy.