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Fidelity Bank has emerged as a frontrunner in the Central Bank of Nigeria’s – CBN recapitalization exercise, successfully surpassing the N500 billion threshold well ahead of the March 31, 2026, deadline.

Through a series of proactive strategic moves, the lender has bolstered its financial standing, concluding the exercise with an eligible capital base of N564.5 billion. This achievement positions the bank comfortably within the requirements for commercial banks with international authorization, signaling a new era of growth and stability.

The bank’s journey to this milestone was highlighted by a remarkable private placement conducted on December 31, 2025, which opened and closed within a single day. The exercise raised N259 billion through the issuance of ordinary shares, attracting high-profile institutional investors such as AFREXIM Bank and its subsidiaries.

This rapid capital injection demonstrated immense market faith in Fidelity’s leadership and governance, effectively covering the N194.5 billion shortfall the bank faced prior to the transaction.

This final push followed an earlier, bold capital-raising effort initiated in June 2024. During that phase, Fidelity Bank “stole the show” by launching a combined public offer and rights issue that generated N175.85 billion.

By incrementally building its capital from N305.5 billion to its current levels, the bank has systematically strengthened its balance sheet resilience in alignment with the mandates granted by its shareholders during the February 2025 Extraordinary General Meeting.

Market analysts suggest that the success of these capital drives reflects strong long-term fundamentals despite tightening regulatory standards and a shifting macroeconomic landscape. By securing over half a trillion naira in capital, Fidelity Bank is now strategically positioned to expand its market footprint, enhance its risk management capabilities, and increase its financing of critical sectors within the Nigerian economy.

This reinforced stability is expected to drive higher returns for investors and support the bank’s broader vision of innovation.

Following the successful verification of its capital by the CBN, Fidelity Bank is now focusing on the post-recapitalization phase. As of April 10, 2026, the bank’s stock price closed at N19.50 per share on the Nigerian Exchange Limited – NGX, reflecting sustained investor interest.

Moving forward, the lender aims to leverage its robust capital position to support national economic growth while maintaining a commitment to prudent risk management and value creation for its stakeholders.