In recent developments, the devaluation of the Nigerian naira against the United States dollar has ignited discussions on the pressing need to raise the capital base of commercial banks in the country. Financial analysts and experts have raised concerns about the impact of the 2004 banking industry recapitalization, which saw banks’ capital base increase from N2 billion to the current N25 billion, in light of the significant depreciation of the naira.
Analyzing the figures, when the capital base was set at N25 billion in 2004, with an exchange rate of N100/$, it translated to an average capital base of $250 million in dollar terms. However, with the current exchange rate at approximately N770/$, the same N25 billion capital base now amounts to just $33.3 million, signaling a substantial decrease.
The capital adequacy ratio, a vital measure of a bank’s capital in relation to its risk-weighted credit exposures, has come under scrutiny. The latest data from the Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN) Monetary Policy Committee, as of April 2023, revealed a capital adequacy ratio of 12.8%, a non-performing loans ratio of 4.4%, and a liquidity ratio of 45.3% for the banking system.
Efforts to obtain the reaction of the CBN regarding potential recapitalization plans were unsuccessful, as the spokesperson, Dr. Abdulmumin Isa, was reportedly in a meeting. The purpose was to inquire whether the CBN intends to implement recapitalization measures in the near future and to seek their perspective on the concerns raised about the banks’ capital base due to the significant naira depreciation since 2004.
Recapitalization is considered necessary by some experts to strengthen the banking and financial industries in Nigeria. Musa Wapahyal Balla, a Compliance Officer at a Tier 2 bank, emphasized that Nigerian banks and firms may experience a decline in valuation due to the perception of weakened organizational strength when valuation is done at foreign exchange rates. Balla predicted that if the current exchange rate remains stable, bank recapitalization may be required, potentially amounting to N100 billion. This could lead to mergers, acquisitions, and job losses, particularly in the Tier 2 and 3 segments.
Abiola Rasaq, a former economist and Head of Investor Relations at UBA Plc, highlighted the necessity of recapitalization from the perspective of sustaining the banking sector. He explained that the recent liberalization of the foreign exchange market, resulting in nearly a 50% depreciation of the naira in the official market, has led to an increase in risk-weighted assets for banks. This development may lower the capital adequacy ratio to below 11%. Rasaq stated that a substantive CBN governor, expected to be announced by mid-August, would likely prioritize banking sector recapitalization to support economic growth.
Ayokunle Olubunmi, head of banking at Augusto & Co, a Pan-African Credit Rating Agency, noted that banks had already anticipated the ongoing FX market liberalization and its potential effects. Many banks have been engaging in various capital-raising exercises, including tier 1, tier 2, and AT1 bonds, to bolster their capital base. Olubunmi mentioned that several banks have already raised their capital beyond the regulatory minimum and that more capital-raising activities are expected before the end of the year.
However, concerns were raised regarding regulatory-induced recapitalization by Professor Uche Umezurike, a renowned economist and financial expert, expressed reservations about relying solely on regulatory-induced recapitalization as a solution. He emphasized the need for a comprehensive approach that includes structural reforms and policy adjustments to address the root causes of the issue.
According to Umezurike, the devaluation of the naira is a symptom of deeper economic challenges, such as fiscal imbalances, inadequate diversification of the economy, and a reliance on oil exports. These factors have contributed to the vulnerability of the naira and, consequently, the weakened capital base of Nigerian banks.
To address these underlying issues, Umezurike proposed a multi-faceted strategy that combines recapitalization efforts with broader economic reforms. He suggested that the government should focus on diversifying the economy, promoting non-oil sectors, and attracting foreign direct investment. Additionally, fiscal discipline, effective monetary policies, and regulatory oversight should be strengthened to enhance financial stability and reduce the risk of future devaluations.
Umezurike also stressed the importance of improving corporate governance within the banking sector. Enhanced transparency, risk management practices, and accountability mechanisms are crucial for building investor confidence and ensuring the soundness of the financial system. He called for stricter regulations and supervision to prevent excessive risk-taking and mitigate potential systemic risks.
In response to the concerns raised, the Nigerian government, in collaboration with the Central Bank of Nigeria, has initiated discussions on potential recapitalization measures. However, the specific details and timeline for implementing these measures are yet to be announced.
Meanwhile, market analysts and investors are closely monitoring the situation, anticipating the potential impact on the banking sector and the broader economy. The outcome of the recapitalization efforts and the stability of the naira will significantly influence investor sentiment, credit availability, and overall economic growth prospects.
As the situation unfolds, stakeholders are hopeful that a balanced and comprehensive approach will be adopted, addressing both the immediate capital base challenges and the structural issues impacting the Nigerian economy. With effective measures and prudent policies, the Nigerian banking sector can regain stability, bolster investor confidence, and contribute to sustainable economic growth in the long run.
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This Post: Urgent Recapitalization of Nigerian Banks Needed Amidst Naira Devaluation was approved and published by Ancity Media Editor and may not be republished elsewhere without prior written permission from the Editor.
