Abiodun JIMOH
In a major boost to its financial strength and market position, Stanbic IBTC Holdings PLC has successfully concluded its Rights Issue, raising a total of ₦148.7 billion—well above its target. The offer attracted a 21.9% oversubscription rate, underscoring strong investor confidence in the bank’s strategic direction and long-term growth plans.
The capital raise comes in direct response to the Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN) new recapitalisation directive for Nigerian banks, aimed at strengthening the financial system and enhancing resilience in the banking sector. Stanbic IBTC’s oversubscribed issuance not only meets but exceeds the regulatory requirement, solidifying its position among the most financially stable banking groups in the country.
Dr. Kunle Adedeji, Acting Chief Executive of Stanbic IBTC Holdings PLC, described the outcome as a clear vote of confidence from shareholders. “The enthusiastic participation of our shareholders in the Rights Issue indicates their strong belief in our strategic vision and long-term objectives. This is more than a financial milestone—it is a step forward in our journey of sustainable growth and innovation.”
The parent company also contributed significantly to the recapitalisation effort, injecting ₦140 billion into Stanbic IBTC Bank, the group’s core banking subsidiary. This injection is expected to enhance the bank’s lending capacity, expand service offerings, and support investments in new technology to improve customer experience.
Chief Executive of Stanbic IBTC Bank, Wole Adeniyi, noted that the new capital will strengthen the bank’s operational capacity in line with emerging market demands. “This funding positions us to better serve our customers, scale innovation, and pursue strategic opportunities that drive growth and profitability,” he said.
In total, Stanbic IBTC now has access to over ₦181.4 billion in new capital, giving it a significant edge in an increasingly competitive banking environment. Analysts say the strong performance of the Rights Issue reflects the market’s trust in the institution’s governance, track record, and its ability to deliver consistent value.
Industry watchers also point to the bank’s proactive approach to regulatory changes, describing its recapitalisation strategy as both timely and forward-looking. With mounting economic pressures and growing demand for digital banking solutions, Stanbic IBTC is positioning itself to lead the next phase of banking evolution in Nigeria.
Beyond meeting CBN requirements, the capital boost enables the bank to pursue key priorities, including technological innovation, enhanced customer service delivery, and expansion of product offerings. It also improves the bank’s risk-bearing capacity and reinforces its long-term sustainability goals.
The successful conclusion of the Rights Issue is seen as a model for other financial institutions navigating the CBN’s new capital threshold. It also signals renewed optimism among shareholders about the bank’s future growth trajectory.
With a renewed capital base, strategic clarity, and a reputation for operational excellence, Stanbic IBTC Holdings is expected to play a leading role in shaping the future of Nigeria’s financial services industry.
