By theG&BJournal
THUR FEB 26 2026-theGBJournal| Nigeria’s banking sector has entered a new capital era, with lenders raising a staggering N4.05 trillion from domestic and foreign investors in an aggressive recapitalisation drive aimed at strengthening balance sheets and positioning for larger-ticket lending.
N2.90 trillion (71.67%) of the amount was pulled in from domestic investors, while US$706.84 million (N1.15 trillion, 28.33%) poured in from foreign investors.
The figure was revealed by the Central Bank Governor, Yemi Cardoso, who also revealed that 20 banks have fully met the new minimum capital requirements.
”This balanced participation reflects broad investor confidence. Institutions under regulatory intervention remain under close oversight, with depositor funds secure,” Cardoso said.
3 others, he said, are at advanced stages and expected to conclude within the timeline.
The wave of capital raising signals renewed investor confidence in the country’s financial system despite macroeconomic headwinds, currency volatility and tight liquidity conditions.
The fundraising spree follows the recapitalisation directive of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), which raised minimum capital thresholds for commercial, merchant and non-interest banks as part of reforms designed to build stronger, more resilient institutions.
Tier-one and mid-tier lenders alike have tapped rights issues, public offers and private placements, drawing interest from pension funds, asset managers and offshore institutional investors seeking exposure to Africa’s largest economy.
Market analysts say the strong subscription levels reflect expectations that a better-capitalised banking industry will be well positioned to support infrastructure financing, oil and gas expansion, manufacturing growth and digital transformation.
The recapitalisation is also expected to improve capital adequacy ratios, enhance risk buffers and support compliance with prudential requirements at a time when credit demand is rising.
With N4.05 trillion already mobilised, attention is now shifting to how efficiently banks deploy the fresh capital and whether the exercise will catalyse consolidation, mergers or strategic foreign partnerships.
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