Yemisi Izuora
The Association of Corporate Affairs Managers of Banks (ACAMB) has emphasized the importance of recapitalization and financial inclusion in driving economic growth in Nigeria. The association made this known at the ongoing Olumo ’25 National Retreat in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
According to Rasheed Bolarinwa, President of ACAMB, the recent recapitalization exercise is a catalyst for Nigerian banks to become stronger, more trusted, and inclusive institutions that can support the country’s ambition of a $1 trillion economy.
The retreat, themed “Banks’ Recapitalization and Beyond: Amplifying Brand Resilience and Stakeholders’ Financial Inclusivity,” brought together policymakers, banking professionals, and industry experts to discuss the future of the banking sector.
Bolarinwa noted that beyond balance sheet growth, the real value lies in brand resilience and expanding financial inclusion for MSMEs, women-led enterprises, and the unbanked in rural areas. He urged participants to approach the retreat with renewed enthusiasm, open minds, and a collaborative spirit.
The retreat is designed to provide a platform for high-level knowledge sharing, masterclasses, and networking opportunities. Participants will engage in plenary and breakout sessions, visit the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library complex, and take part in a serene boat ride, among other activities.
The ACAMB President expressed gratitude to the sponsors, organizing committee, facilitators, and participants for making the event a success. He emphasized that the retreat is a movement to redefine the industry narrative, strengthen professional bonds, and reinforce the voice of Nigerian banking.
Delivering a keynote address at the Association of Corporate Affairs Managers of Banks (ACAMB) National Retreat held in Abeokuta, Ogun State, the CBN Deputy Governor in charge of Financial System Stability, Mr. Philip Ikeazor, said the exercise is designed to build a stronger, more resilient, and inclusive financial system that supports Nigeria’s aspiration of becoming a $1trn economy by 2030.
Speaking on the theme, “Banks Recapitalisation and Beyond: Amplifying Brand Resilience & Stakeholders’ Financial Inclusivity,” Ikeazor described the recapitalisation policy as a bold statement of ambition and resilience rather than a mere regulatory directive.
He stressed that banks must leverage stronger capital bases to expand credit to micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), enhance financing for women and youth, and deepen investments in digital innovation and artificial intelligence.
“The true goal of this exercise is not to create bigger banks, but better banks, banks that are safe, sound, well-governed, innovative, and inclusive,” Ikeazor stated.
“A stronger capital base must translate into tangible outcomes such as expanded credit to MSMEs, enhanced financing for marginalised groups, and greater investment in technology-driven solutions that improve financial inclusion.”
Ikeazor explained that the CBN’s recapitalisation directive, which set new minimum capital requirements of ₦500bn for international banks, ₦200 billion for national banks, and ₦50bn for regional banks, aims to strengthen the capacity of Nigerian banks to withstand global shocks and remain competitive in an increasingly volatile economic environment.