Introduction
As Nigerian banks approach the March 2026 deadline for meeting the Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN) new minimum capital requirements, recapitalization has become both urgent and strategic. With higher thresholds and limited recognition of traditional reserves as eligible capital, banks must adopt forward-looking strategies to meet these standards while safeguarding market confidence and operational efficiency.
This is more than a compliance exercise. It is a pivotal moment that will influence competitiveness, systemic stability, and strategic direction for years to come. The ability to transition smoothly into a post-compliance environment will define which institutions emerge as market leaders.