Ecobank Nigeria Announces Third Edition of ‘Adire Lagos Experience’
Ecobank Nigeria says it has concluded plans to host the third edition of ‘Adire Lagos Experience’. The planned four days exhibition will take place at the ultra-modern Ecobank Pan African Centre (EPAC) on Victoria Island, Lagos from Thursday, June 14th till Sunday, 17th, 2024. Announcing the program in Lagos, Adeola Ogunyemi, Head, Consumer Banking, said the exhibition will feature authentic Adire fabric displays from over 100 diverse merchants, indigenous cuisine, and African entertainment, adding that there will be series of masterclasses, as well as networking opportunities with entrepreneurs, shoppers, and everyone in the business of making or trading in Adire.
“We are encouraged with the success of the previous editions of the ‘Adire Lagos Experience’ and we plan to make this year’s edition bigger and better. The exhibition is in line with our brand promise as a pan-African financial institution to promote culture and boost tourism on the continent. We have through this opportunity playing a notable part in contributing to boost Nigeria’s tourism, culture and the creative industry using Adire as a key driver. High profile exhibitors, vendors, expatriates, influencers and dignitaries from different parts of the world and from all walks of life have indicated interest to be part of the event. I am therefore inviting Nigerians, diasporans resident in Nigeria and the diplomatic corps to attend the four day event.” She stated.
Further, Mrs Ogunyemi reiterated that the exhibition aligns perfectly with the Ecobank’s commitment as a Pan-African Institution to offer experiences that go beyond banking and also dedicated to creating enriching experiences that resonate with its customers’ lifestyles while celebrating the diversity of our nation’s culture. “We are providing a cozy ambience with utmost serenity to make participants feel comfortable and safe. Participation is free, and everyone is welcome to invite family and friends to come over to witness the beautiful event. This Exhibition also presents an opportunity not only to sell and buy products but to experience the luxuriance in our culture.”
Expected to grace the occasion are top government officials from Lagos, Ogun and other neighbouring states and stakeholders in adire business.
Ecobank Nigeria, a key driver of tourism, culture and the creative industries in Nigeria recently hosted the +234Art, a 10-day art fair dedicated to nurturing and uplifting the burgeoning art industry in Nigeria. The fair provided a platform to support emerging artists and encourage increased interest in art acquisition; also the bank organized the Photography, Art, and Design Exhibition (PADE) to commemorate World Photography Day in 2022; the bank also partnered “Songs & Stories” With Cobhams Asuquo; Redbull Dance Your Style; BellaNaija Style Summit and Loosing Daylight (An exhibition of the history of Nollywood organised by Nse Ikpe-Etim).
UBA Celebrates Africa Day in Style, Commits to Empowering Youths for Leadership Roles
Africa’s Global bank, United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc, joined the rest of the world on Friday, May 24, 2024, to mark this year’s edition of the Africa Day.
The celebration which went on concurrently across all of its subsidiaries in Africa as well as in the United Kingdom, France, United States of America and the United Arab Emirates, had the underlying theme: Education Fit for the 21st Century.
To mark the event, staff members were dressed in colourful African attire displaying the cultural diversity of the employees of United Bank for Africa.
There were dance troupes in various offices across the continent organised by UBA subsidiaries, where staff, clients and the public were entertained with African drums and cultural dancers as well as choice African fruits and snacks.
A major highlight of the event was the selection of best dressed staff across various categories, representing the diverse African culture. As voted by the staff, Chisom Augustine, emerged the winner of the Best Indigenous concept while Sarah Richter clinched the fan’s choice for Best Indigenous Concept (Rest of the World). Temitayo Abayomi won the jury’s choice as best dressed Nigerian staff. Several other winners also emerged across various cadre.
They bank rewarded each of the winners with various cash prizes at a glamorous closing ceremony which was held at its Head office and replicated across other branches and subsidiaries.
UBA’s Group Head, Human Resources, Modupe Akindele, who addressed staff during the closing ceremony at the UBA Head Office in Lagos, commended staff members for their hard-work over the years, and noted that the annual event had become a lifestyle for the bank.
She said, “We at UBA celebrate Africa Day with the rest of Africa. We are Africa, United by one Bank. Today is a day to remind ourselves that we have all it takes in Africa, be it fashion, talent, and creativity. The message is about being African and being proud of our heritage. We want to showcase who we are and what we have.”
Continuing, she said, “For us at UBA, identifying with Africa and indeed Africa Day is synonymous with who we are as a bank. It presents us the opportunity to remind ourselves, the world and indeed Africa that we owe ourselves the duty of making Africa the continent of our dreams.”
UBA celebrates Africa Day annually in line with the official celebration by African nations, reiterating its long-held belief that the future belongs to the continent. Africa Day is an annual event, commemorating the birth of the African union on May 25, 1963. It is dedicated to celebrating the diversity of the African continent, and to highlight the cultural and economic potential that exists on the continent.
The bank leverages on the occasion to rekindle the African spirit that drives the UBA group’s vision to be a dominant financial services provider on the continent and its emergence as a recognizable economic power.
United Bank for Africa is one of the largest employers in the financial sector on the African continent, with 25,000 employees group wide and serving over 35 million customers globally. Operating in twenty African countries and in the United Kingdom, the United States of America, France and the United Arab Emirates, UBA provides retail, commercial and institutional banking services, leading financial inclusion and implementing cutting edge technology.
FIRSTBANK MAINTAINS IMPRESSIVE PERFORMANCE, POSTS N238.53BN PBT IN Q1 2024
FBN Holdings Plc declared N238.53 billion profit before tax (PBT) in its unaudited first quarter (Q1) ended March 31, 2024 results, which was about 325.2percent growth from the N56.1 billion reported in Q1 ended March 31, 2023.
The Q1 2024 results was a reflection of 2023 impressive performance as one of the oldest banks in Nigeria sustained its fundamentals amid domestic and foreign challenges. From its Q1 2024 profit & loss figures, the Group declared N208.1 billion profit, which was about 315.8 per cent compared with the N50.1 billion reported in Q1 2023.
The group announced N730.3 billion gross earnings in Q1 2024, which was an increase of 181.4 per cent from N259.5 billion in Q1 2023.
Amid hike in Monetary Policy Rate (MPR), the financial institution declared N455 billion interest income in Q1 2024, a growth of 153.3 per cent from N179.6 billion in Q1 2023, while interest expenses closed Q1 2024 at N226.42 billion, representing 234.1per cent increase from N67.76 billion reported in Q1 2023.
On the backdrop of a double-digit inflation rate, operating expenses moved from N111.2 billion in Q1 2023 to N212.80 billion reported in Q1 2024.
Total assets from the balance sheet position stood at N21.58 trillion as of March 2024, which was a 27.4 per cent increase from the N16.94 trillion recorded in 2022.
As FBNHoldings declared N8.42 trillion Customer loans & advances (Net) as of March 2024 from N6.36 trillion in 2023, full financial year, its customer deposits stood at N13.27 trillion as of March 2024, an increase of 24.4 per cent from N10.66 trillion reported in 2023 financial year.
The Group Managing Director, FBNHoldings, Nnamdi Okonkwo in a statement said, “FBNHoldings’ strong start to the year reinforces the confidence in achieving targets and delivering sustained value for our shareholders. “Our commitment to optimising the Group’s earnings capacity and maximising operational efficiencies has again delivered outstanding results.
“Underpinned by strong revenue growth and improved operational efficiency, our key financial metrics have shown significant improvement. Remarkably, gross earnings grew 181.4per cent to N730.3 billion, while profit before tax increased by 325.2per cent to N238.5 billion while our total assets increased by 27.4per cent in three months to N21.6 trillion.”
He added that the Group remained focused on its strategic initiatives towards further improving profitability, enhancing excellence in performance and surpassing stakeholders’ expectations.
However, the shareholding structure of FBNHoldings showed, the Group Chairman, Mr. Femi Otedola direct and indirect stake in the Group stood at 2,517,282,140 as of March 2024 from 1,999,342,376 March 2023.
The stock price of FBNHoldings closed March 27, 2024 at N21.1 per share on the floor of the Exchange.
Access Holdings Vests 23.8 million Units of Shares on Senior Executives
In line with the disclosure requirements of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the Nigerian Exchange Limited, Access Holdings Plc , Africa’s leading financial services group, has announced the award of 23.8 million ordinary shares to some of its senior executives and executives of Access Bank, its flagship subsidiary. This is in pursuant of the terms of its shareholders approved Employees Performance Share Plan.
Bolaji Agbede, the Acting Group Chief Executive Officer of Access Holdings, Roosevelt Ogbonna, the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Access Bank, and six others were vested with 23,883,790 units of the Group’s shares, worth a combined N427.13 million.
This was disclosed via notices duly filed with the Nigerian Exchange Limited on Tuesday.
According to the filings, Ogbonna got the highest amount of shares totalling 12,345,679 units and worth N220.37 million, having been traded at N17.85 per share.
Agbede was vested with 2,216,992 units of shares, valued at N39.795 million.
Other directors, who had shares vested include Seyi Kumapayi, Executive Director, African Subsidiaries, Access Bank, with 1,234,568 worth N22.16 million; Iyabo Soji-Okusanya, Executive Director, Commercial and Investment Banking Division, Access Bank, with 1,691,308 at N17.95 per share. Her vested shares are valued at N30.36 million, and Chizoma Okoli, Access Bank’s Deputy Managing Director, Retail South, who got 1,728,395 units valued at N30.85 million.
Dr Gregory Jobome, Executive Director, Risk Management, and Hadiza Ambursa, Executive Director, Commercial Banking, were each vested with 1,728,395 valued at N30.85 and N31.02m respectively. Access Holdings’ Company Secretary, Sunday Ekwochi, was vested with 1,210,058 units of the Group’s shares worth N21.72m.
The shares were vested on May 3rd and May 6th.
The vesting of the shares is not a purchase or sale transaction in the context of the Exchange’s Rules.
Founder and Chairman of Zenith Bank Plc, Jim Ovia, CFR (Centre) flanked by the Group Managing Director/Chief Executive, Dr. Ebenezer Onyeagwu (Left) and the Deputy Managing Director, Dame (Dr.) Adaora Umeoji, OON (Right) during the 33rd Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the bank held at The Civic Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos yesterday.
Shareholders of Zenith Bank Plc, at the 33rd Annual General Meeting (AGM) held at the Civic Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos, on Wednesday, 8 May 2024, approved the proposed final dividend payment of NGN3.50 per share, bringing the total dividend for the 2023 financial year to NGN4.00 per share, with a total value of NGN125.59 billion, which is the highest dividend payout by any bank.
In his opening statement at the Annual General Meeting, Dr. Jim Ovia, CFR, Founder and Chairman of Zenith Bank Plc, thanked the shareholders for their unflinching support and loyalty to the Zenith brand which has been instrumental to the bank’s consistent superior performance.
The Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Ebenezer Onyeagwu, thanked the Founder and Chairman, Jim Ovia, CFR, for his mentorship, which has been instrumental to his success in the last five years as CEO, and for providing the pedestal for the bank’s continued superior performance. In his words, “As I prepare to pass the baton to Dame (Dr) Adaora Umeoji, OON, I am confident in the bank’s trajectory under her leadership. I would like to express my profound gratitude to our Founder and Chairman, Dr Jim Ovia, CFR, and to the board, shareholders, customers, and staff for their steadfast support throughout my tenure. I earnestly request that you extend the same level of support to my successor. It has been a remarkable journey, and I am immensely proud of what we have accomplished together. As I commence the mandatory regulatory cooling-off period, I am filled with optimism for Zenith Bank’s future, assured that we are on the path to even greater success.”
Speaking on the dividend payout, Mrs. Bisi Bakare, National Coordinator of the Pragmatic Shareholders Association of Nigeria, expressed her delight in the exceptional performance of the bank, as evidenced by the numerous awards received during the 2023 financial year. She remarked, “We shareholders are very pleased today to receive a final dividend of N3.50 kobo from Zenith Bank. Following an interim dividend of 50 kobo paid last December, the total dividend for the 2023 Annual General Meeting amounts to N4.00— the highest in the banking sector to date. We truly appreciate this and are optimistic that the transition to a Holding Company will bring even greater returns. Zenith Bank’s numerous accolades this year clearly position it as the leading bank in the country. We anticipate that the 2024 AGM, marking the first year as a Holding Company, will be even more promising for Zenith.”
At the AGM, Dr. Faruk Umar, President of the Association of the Rights of Nigerian Shareholders (AARNS), expressed his gratitude to the Chairman for facilitating a seamless succession plan. He stated, “The bank has performed exceptionally well, particularly in terms of succession planning. It’s encouraging to see the new Managing Director promoted from within, reinforcing our belief in the bank’s leadership development. This internal promotion strategy motivates our staff, giving them confidence that they can aspire to the highest levels within the bank.”
Chief Timothy Adesiyan, President of the Shareholders Solidarity Association of Nigeria, praised the Chairman and Management of Zenith Bank for their consistent delivery of value to shareholders. He noted, “The bank’s rapid growth can be attributed to the diligent oversight by our Founder, who is also a core investor and actively monitors all operations. This growth is further supported by our adherence to strict corporate governance principles. The bank’s performance metrics are clearly delineated and managed by dedicated committees, ensuring accountability and responsiveness. As a stakeholder, I am very pleased with their performance and attentive response to any concerns raised.”
In spite of challenging macroeconomic conditions coupled with economic headwinds, Zenith Bank Group achieved a remarkable triple-digit growth of 125% in gross earnings, from NGN945.6 billion in the previous year to NGN2.132 trillion in 2023. This was driven by a 112% YoY growth in interest income and a 141% YoY growth in non-interest income. Customer deposits grew by 69%, reflecting the bank’s market leadership and customers’ trust. Operating expenses grew by 32% YoY.Total assets rose by 66%, largely due to growth in total deposits and the revaluation of foreign currency deposits
In 2024, Zenith Bank Group plans to expand its reach following its restructuring into a holding company structure, adding new verticals to its businesses and pursuing growth in all chosen markets, locally and internationally.
Zenith Bank’s track record of excellent performance has continued to earn the brand numerous awards, including being recognised as Best Bank in Nigeria, for the fourth time in five years, from 2020 to 2022 and in 2024, in the Global Finance World’s Best Banks Awards; the Best Bank for Digital Solutions in Nigeria in the Euromoney Awards 2023, being listed in the World Finance Top 100 Global Companies in 2023; being recognised as the Number One Bank in Nigeria by Tier-1 Capital, for the 14th consecutive year, in the 2023 Top 1000 World Banks Ranking published by The Banker Magazine; Best Commercial Bank, Nigeria, for three consecutive years from 2021 to 2023, in the World Finance Banking Awards; Best Corporate Governance Bank, Nigeria in the World Finance Corporate Governance Awards 2022 and 2023; Bank of the Year (Nigeria) in The Banker’s Bank of the Year Awards 2020 and 2022; Best in Corporate Governance’ Financial Services’ Africa, for four successive years from 2020 to 2023, by the Ethical Boardroom; Most Sustainable Bank, Nigeria in the International Banker 2023 Banking Awards; Best Commercial Bank, Nigeria and Best Innovation in Retail Banking, Nigeria in the International Banker 2022 Banking Awards.
Also, the bank emerged as the Most Valuable Banking Brand in Nigeria in the Banker Magazine Top 500 Banking Brands 2020 and 2021; Bank of the Year 2023 and Retail Bank of the Year for three consecutive years from 2020 to 2022, at the BusinessDay Banks and Other Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards. Similarly, Zenith Bank was named Bank of the Decade (People’s Choice) at the ThisDay Awards 2020, Bank of the Year 2021 by Champion Newspaper, Bank of the Year 2022 by New Telegraph Newspaper, and Most Responsible Organisation in Africa 2021 by SERAS
ZENITH BANK ON TRACK TO SURPASS 2023 RESULTS WITH 189% GROWTH IN Q1 EARNINGS
Zenith Bank Plc has announced its unaudited results for the first quarter ended 31st March 2024, with an impressive triple-digit growth of 189% in Gross Earnings, from ₦270 billion reported in Q1 2023 to ₦781 billion in Q1 2024. This is despite the challenging operating environment and tightening monetary policy stance.
From the unaudited statement of account submitted to the Nigerian Exchange (NGX) on Friday, 3rd May 2024, this impressive growth in the topline also enhanced the bottom line, as profit before tax (PBT) rose to ₦320 billion in Q1 2024, representing an increase of 270% from the ₦87 billion reported in Q1 2023. Profit after tax (PAT) equally grew significantly by 291% from the ₦66 billion reported in Q1 2023 to ₦258 billion in the current period.
Interest and non-interest income contributed significantly to the growth in gross earnings. Interest income grew by 155% from the ₦192 billion reported in the quarter ended March 2023 to ₦489 billion in the period to 31 March 2024. The growth in interest income is due to the repricing of risk assets, owing to the increase in the central bank’s Monetary Policy Rate (MPR), which currently stands at 24.75%. The growth in net interest income is primarily due to the increase in fees and commissions as well as trading grains.
The Group reported an impairment charge of ₦56 billion for Q1 2024, up from ₦8 billion recorded in Q1 2023. This is attributable to significant growth in risk assets, primarily driven by the revaluation of its USD loans, which necessitated additional impairment on the bank’s foreign currency-denominated loans.
The cost of funds grew by 48% from 2.7% in Q1 2023 to 4% in Q1 2024 due to the high-interest rate environment, while interest expense increased by 157% from ₦71 billion reported in Q1 2023 to ₦182 billion in the period to March 2024. Notwithstanding the year-on-year (YoY) increase in interest expense, net interest margin (NIM) grew by 20% from 6.9% in the 3 months ended March 2023 to 8.3% in the current period ending 31 March 2024. Return on Average Equity (ROAE) and Return on Average Assets (ROAA) increased year-on-year (YoY) by 114% and 119%, respectively, due to improved profitability.
Gross loans, which are largely funded by customer deposits, grew by 30% from ₦7.1 trillion in December 2023 to ₦9.2 trillion in March 2024. Customer deposits also grew by 11% from ₦15.2 trillion in December 2023 to ₦16.8 trillion in March 2024, underpinning continued customer confidence in the Zenith brand. Total assets increased by 19% to ₦24 trillion within the same period.
The Group has consistently maintained all prudential ratios well above the minimum regulatory requirement. At the end of Q1 2024, Capital Adequacy Ratio (CAR) and Liquidity Ratio stood at 20% and 67%, respectively, demonstrating the Group’s ability to maintain a strong and liquid balance sheet.
The Group is making progress on the planned capital raise to support future growth and is very optimistic about meeting the new minimum capital requirements in line with the CBN’s recapitalisation directive. As the Group accelerates migration to its new technology architecture and also transitions into a holding company, it remains poised to maximise value for all stakeholders.
ZENITH BANK, AfCFTA JOIN FORCES TO REVOLUTIONIZE AFRICAN TRADE
Zenpay Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of Zenith Bank Plc, has signed an Agreement with the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretariat for the development and deployment of the SMARTAfCFTA Portal to facilitate trade within the African continent.
The agreement which was signed by the Chairman of Zenpay Limited, Dr. Ebenezer Onyeagwu and the Secretary-General of the AfCFTA Secretariat, His Excellency Wamkele Mene, at Zenith Bank Headquarters, Ajose Adeogun Street, Victoria Island, Lagos on Friday, May 3, 2024 comes as a follow-up to the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) which was previously signed by both parties during the 8th Annual Edition of Zenith Bank’s International Trade Seminar on Non-Oil Export which was held on Wednesday, August 8, 2023.
During the agreement signing, Dr. Ebenezer Onyeagwu, Chairman of Zenpay Limited, expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration with the AfCFTA Secretariat, highlighting its significance given the current understanding of trade flows in Africa. Dr. Onyeagwu noted, “In Africa, intra-African trade constitutes only about 20% of total trade, with the rest going overseas, despite Africans making up 18% of the world population but contributing less than 5% to global GDP. By trading within Africa, we anticipate building prosperity across the continent.”
He further stated, “This initiative is not driven by profit but by the need to support the African Continental Free Trade Area. It aims to create a unified African market, enhancing economic integration and standardising customs and practices. As we advance this agenda, we expect tosee significant growth and improvement in intra-Africa trade.”
Also speaking during the agreement signing, His Excellency, Wamkele Mene, Secretary-General of the AfCFTA Secretariat, shared his delight over the partnership with Zenpay Limited in developing SMARTAfCFTA. He appreciated Jim Ovia, CFR, Founder and Chairman of Zenith Bank Plc, for his commitment to the project. According to him, “Four years ago, we discussed and envisioned SMARTAfCFTA as a digital platform to empower SMEs and young entrepreneurs in Africa, facilitating their inclusion in trade and boosting intra-African trade. This platform will serve as a repository for crucial trade data, offering insights on rules of origin and market intelligence, thus playing a pivotal role in implementing the AfCFTA agreement. Today is a testament that working together with our African partners in this case, Zenith bank, shows that their commitment goes beyond their progit margins to their stakeholders, but are motivated by our shared duty towards the Continent.”
Speaking about the Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS) alongside the SMARTAfCFTA portal, H.E. Mene described PAPSS as “Africa’s payment highway.” He clarified that, unlike PAPSS, SMARTAfCFTA is not a payment platform itself but will be interoperable with PAPSS, allowing functionalities that facilitate easy payments. He emphasised that these platforms complement each other; they are not in competition. “We promote and encourage only one payment platform—PAPSS. Our goal is to integrate the digital ecosystem we are developing into PAPSS. We are committed to fostering innovation within this framework, ensuring it supports a seamless continental payment system without creating competition among platforms.”
SMARTAfCFTA is a digital platform designed to facilitate international trade by providing the necessary information and tools to the African private and public sectors. The Portal aims to streamline and unlock vast opportunities for trade across the African continent, and has the capacity to provide information like trade indicators, market trends, custom tariffs, trade agreements, Rules of Origin, market access requirements of relevant jurisdictions, export potentials, export diversification indicators and contact details of business partners in target markets and other trade-related information about Africa.
About ZENPAY Ltd
Zenpay Ltd is a private limited liability company duly incorporated under the laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria as a wholly owned subsidiary of Zenith Bank Plc. The company. It is a one-stop revolutionary financial technology (Fintech) company responsible for digital innovation and payments.
Transcorp Group delivers impressive Q1 2024 performance; sustains revenue growth of 173% and PBT of N45 billion
Transnational Corporation Plc (“Transcorp” or the “Group”), Nigeria’s leading, listed conglomerate with investment in the Power, Hospitality, and Energy sectors, has announced impressive Q1 financial results for the period ended March 31, 2024.
In its Q1 2024 unaudited results, Transcorp reported significant year-on-year growth, with revenue rising to N88.6 billion from N32.4 billion in 2023, representing a 173% increase.
The impressive results are largely driven by a remarkable 209% year-on-year revenue growth within the power business, highlighting significant strategic progress as part of Transcorp Group’s implementation of its integrated power strategy.
The hospitality business recorded a 68% year-on-year growth in revenue, driven by an increase in occupancy rate from 75% to 82% compared to the previous year.
The results show substantial growth across all financial indicators, reinforcing its market leadership and strategic positioning.
Highlight of Transcorp Group Results:
Q1 2024 Revenue was N88.6 billion, a significant increase of 173%, compared to Q1 2023.
Operating income increased by 479%, from N8.5 billion in Q1 2023 to N49.1 billion in Q1 2024.
Operating expenses saw an increase of 40% year on year to N8.2 billion in Q1 2024, reflecting the impact of inflation and cost of operations.
Net finance cost increased by 14% to N3.7 billion in 2024 from N3.2 billion in 2023 due to a slightly higher interest rate review in line with MPR.
Profit before tax from ordinary business of the Group surged by 1110%, amounting to N34.7 billion in Q1 2024, compared to N2.9 billion in Q1 2023 in the same period last year.
Profit before tax inclusive of extra ordinary income was N45.7 billion in 2024 compared to N2.9 billion in 2023.
The Group recorded extra ordinary income of N11 billion during the period from the realised gain from the sale of shares.
Profit after Tax including the extra ordinary income improved 1832% year-on-year to N35.9 billion in Q1 2024, compared to N1.9 billion in Q1 2023 in the same period last year.
Earnings per share of the Group was N61.12k in Q1 2024, compared to N2.58k in Q1 2023.
On the balance sheet, total assets grew by 8.3%, from N530 billion in December 2023 to N574 billion in Q1 2024 due to the increase in operational activities.
Shareholders’ funds increased by 20% from N187billion in December 2023 to N224 billion at the end of Q1 2024 due to profit accreted to retained earnings.
In response to the results, Dr. Owen D. Omogiafo, President/Group Chief Executive Officer of Transcorp, commented, “Our Q1 2024 results demonstrates Transcorp Group’s resilience and commitment to excellence. Despite the challenges, we achieved growth across all major indices, focusing on operational efficiency at both our power plants, and maximising opportunities within our hospitality business, showing our ability to adapt and succeed in changing markets. We will continue to deliver sustainable growth, operational efficiency, and value for our shareholders.”
This robust achievement is a further demonstration of the Group’s strategic focus and effective execution. Transcorp is dedicated to its transformation agenda, emphasising sustained growth and a relentless pursuit of long-term value for shareholders.
Access Holdings Plc Reports Strong FY2023 Financial Performance, Grows PBT by 335%, Earnings to N2.59 Trillion
Access Holdings Plc (“The Group”) has announced its audited Consolidated and Separate Financial Statements for the year ended December 31, 2023. In the year under review, the Group recorded a robust growth in its Profits Before Tax, posting a healthy N729 billion, representing 335% year-on-year (YoY) increase from 2022.
Access Holdings’ Gross Earnings also surged by 87% YoY to N2.59 trillion, up from N1.38 trillion in 2022. This remarkable growth was primarily driven by a 100% increase in interest income and a 67.9% growth in non-interest income. The Group’s Net Interest Income also demonstrated strong performance, soaring by 93.5% YoY to N695.4 billion, compared to N359.6 billion in the previous year. The yield on earning assets also rose remarkably from 9.2% in 2022 to 12.8%.
Access Holdings’ Loans & Advances expanded by 60.5% YoY to N8.9 trillion, accompanied by an improvement in the Non-Performing Loan Ratio, which decreased to 2.8% from 3.2% in 2022. The Group closed the year with N2.18 trillion in Shareholders’ Funds, marking a significant 77.5% growth from N1.23 trillion in FY 2022.
Commenting on the performance, Bolaji Agbede, Acting Group Chief Executive Officer, Access Holdings Plc, said:
“The Group’s strong performance in 2023 reflects our commitment to delivering value to our shareholders and stakeholders amidst challenging operating environments. The significant growth in our earnings is a testament to the resilience, strategic focus, and efficiency of our team, and reflects the diversity of our offering across banking, pension, insurance, and payments driven by robust risk management, best-in-class corporate governance, and cutting-edge technology. As we look ahead, we remain committed to driving sustainable growth, consolidating our footprint, and accelerating the attainment of our 2027 strategic objectives.”
Access Holdings’ regulatory ratios strengthened in 2023 as Capital Adequacy Ratios for the Group, and its flagship subsidiary, Access Bank, stood at 19.01% and 21.09%, respectively. The Liquidity Ratio remained robust at 51.8%, well above the regulatory threshold.
Roosevelt Ogbonna, Managing Director/CEO, Access Bank remarked on the Bank’s accomplishments, saying: “As we reflect on the results of 2023, characterised by robust growth, strategic acquisitions, and expansion into key trade hubs, I am excited about the prospects for Access Bank. Our relentless focus on customer-centricity, digital innovation, and operational excellence has positioned us strongly to capitalise on emerging opportunities. As we enter the consolidation and efficiency phase of our Africa and international expansion strategy, we remain committed to driving sustainable growth, enhancing shareholder value, and delivering exceptional banking experiences to our customers across Africa and beyond.”
Access Holdings’ other subsidiaries also posted strong results, as Access Pensions Limited recorded a 75% growth in gross revenues, amounting to N12.3 billion, while Hydrogen Payment services posted an operating income of N2.1 billion and a PBT of N161 million.
Access Holdings Plc acquired Megatech Insurance Brokers Ltd. (now known as Access Insurance Brokers Ltd.) and successfully completed a US$300million capital injection into Access Banking Group, which acquired several entities including Finibanco Angola S.A., and select Standard Chartered Bank operations in Africa.
Access Bank’s UK subsidiary also opened a branch in Paris and received regulatory approval to commence operations in Hong Kong.
The Group has proposed a final dividend of N1.80 kobo per share for the 2023 financial year, bringing the total dividend payment to N2.10 kobo per share with a total value of N74.6 billion.
Reiterating his confidence in the organisation’s resilience, Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, Chairman, Access Holdings, said: “As we navigate this transformative period, we remain confident in the leadership of the Group to continue this upward trend and set the standard for financial service groups in the continent. Access Holdings has a rich history of excellence, and we will continue to deliver unparalleled value to our stakeholders.”
Commencing in the second half of 2024, the Group’s Africa and international expansion strategy will enter the consolidation and efficiency phase, aligning with the institution’s five-year plan to accelerate the attainment of its 2027 strategic objectives.
Coronation Group, Access Holdings Plc, Safaricom and M-PESA Africa Partner to Explore Remittances
A transformative collaboration aimed at broadening access to remittances across Africa has been forged among Coronation Group, Access Holdings Plc, Safaricom Plc and M-PESA Africa (the parties) as the parties come together in a strategic alliance dedicated to propelling financial inclusion and nurturing economic prosperity for millions across the continent.
The parties aim to explore solutions that will provide a remittance corridor between East and West Africa, connecting some of the continent’s largest economies.
The collaboration will see the convergence of Access Holdings’ robust Pan-African banking infrastructure, spanning 14 African countries, with Coronation Group’s comprehensive array of technology-infused financial services offerings in West Africa, coupled with M-PESA and Safaricom. M-PESA is the continent’s leading mobile money and digital payments service, connecting more than 60 million customers and 5 million businesses across 8 countries and processing more than $1 billion a day in transaction value. Safaricom is Kenya’s leading telecommunications, ICT and financial services provider with more than 32 million of its customers using M-PESA services every month.
Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, Chairman of Access Holdings and Coronation Group, emphasised the ethos of empowerment that forms the foundation of this collaboration. “We stand at the threshold of an extraordinary journey, one poised to shape the financial landscape of Africa. This partnership encompasses more than a convergence of capabilities; it signifies the fusion of collective expertise, resources, and an unwavering commitment to drive financial inclusion, empowering millions throughout Africa. Through collaborative innovation, shared vision, and resolute determination, we are primed to unlock unprecedented opportunities, transform lives, and make an indelible imprint on Africa’s trajectory,” Mr. Aig-Imoukhuede added.
Sharing insights into the transformative potential of the collaboration, Bolaji Agbede, Acting Group Chief Executive Officer of Access Holdings Plc, affirmed, “Our conviction remains steadfast – this collaboration has the power to recalibrate the trajectory of financial services in Africa. By combining our strengths with those of Coronation Group, Safaricom and M-Pesa Africa, we will deliver on our promise of sustainably impacting our stakeholders, empowering individuals, and significantly contributing to the continent’s economic ascension.”
“African countries trade more with nations outside the continent than within themselves. Initiatives such as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) seek to address the lack of intra-continental trade. This partnership with Safaricom, Coronation Group and Access Holdings seeks to explore remittance corridors between East and West Africa bringing alive the AfCFTA spirit,” said Sitoyo Lopokoiyit, MD – M-PESA Africa.
“We will be collaborating with M-PESA Africa, Coronation Group and Access Holdings to explore secure, convenient, and affordable remittance solutions that will connect our customers to opportunities in West Africa. Africa remains an underserved region especially for remittances within the continent making such partnerships crucial in closing the gap,” said Peter Ndegwa, CEO – Safaricom.
The initial phase of the collaboration will concentrate on pivotal markets, including Nigeria, Kenya, Ghana, and Tanzania.
The collaboration is subject to commercial discussions and definitive agreements, internal corporate approvals of the respective parties and relevant legal and regulatory processes. The partners remain steadfast in their adherence to regulatory frameworks and their dedication to establishing an enabling environment that empowers individuals and enterprises alike, fostering significant contributions to Africa’s economic advancement.
