Unity-Providus merger positions bank above CBN new capital bar

The proposed merger between Unity Bank Plc and Providus Bank Limited has positioned the combined institution above the Central Bank of Nigeria’s new minimum capital threshold for national lenders, following overwhelming shareholder approval and key regulatory clearances that have kept the transaction firmly on course.

Analysts appraising the ongoing recapitalisation programme believe that the regulatory backing and shareholders’ support for the merger represent the most important milestones for meeting the recapitalisation requirements within the stipulated timeline.

Recall that the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) backed the merger between the two lenders, with a pivotal financial accommodation to support the transaction. The merger also received a further boost with a “no objection” nod from the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The regulatory approvals form part of broader efforts to strengthen the resilience of Nigeria’s banking system, reinforce capital adequacy across the sector, and mitigate potential systemic risks.

The development positions the combined entity among the 21 banks that have satisfied the apex bank’s new capital threshold for national banking operations.

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Through the proposed merger, the combined capital base of Unity Bank and Providus Bank exceeds N200 billion, which is the minimum requirement to retain a national banking licence under the CBN’s recapitalisation framework. The transaction marks a significant milestone in strengthening the financial stability and long-term competitiveness of the enlarged institution.

Following the CBN’s approval, shareholders of both banks overwhelmingly endorsed the merger at their respective Extraordinary General Meetings held in September 2025, where the scheme of merger was formally adopted. The transaction has since progressed with additional regulatory clearances from the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and other relevant authorities. Integration activities between the two institutions are currently underway, with the final court sanction expected to conclude the process.

Ebenezer Kolawole, managing director and chief executive officer of Unity Bank, described the development as a defining moment for the institution, adding that the complementary strengths and unique advantages of the Unity Bank and Providus Bank merger place the new entity on a strong footing to create and leverage opportunities in the market.

“This milestone underscores our commitment to building a stronger, more resilient bank that can deliver greater value to our customers and stakeholders. The merger with Providus Bank significantly enhances our capital base, operational capacity, and strategic positioning. We are confident that the combined institution will be better equipped to support economic growth and deliver innovative financial solutions across Nigeria.”

The Bank further clarified that, contrary to reports in certain sections of the media suggesting that the merger process had stalled, the transaction remains firmly on track. The necessary regulatory steps have been completed, with a few other steps only a matter of formality.

When completed, the Unity-Providus merger is expected to deliver a stronger, more competitive, and customer-centric financial institution, one with the scale, innovation, and reach to redefine the retail and SME banking landscape in Nigeria.