Nigeria’s banking sector was rocked last week by the Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN) decision to revoke the operating license of Heritage Bank. This action, while seemingly abrupt, was the culmination of years of financial struggles for the bank. Analysts point to a combination of factors leading to Heritage’s downfall, raising questions about regulatory intervention and the future of troubled institutions.
A Troubled History:
Despite facing challenges dating back to 2018, the CBN’s delayed intervention has come under scrutiny. Financial analysts suggest administrative hurdles may have contributed to the slow response. The CBN typically follows a lengthy process involving identifying financial distress, conducting examinations, and appointing a liquidator. This process, according to one analyst, can take up to two years, potentially delaying decisive action.
The Domino Effect and AMCON’s Limitations:
Another concern surrounding the delayed revocation is the potential for a bank run on other institutions. A sudden closure of Heritage Bank could have triggered panic among depositors in other banks, leading to mass withdrawals and further destabilization of the financial system. As Ayoola Kosoko, a financial analyst, points out, “the failure of one bank can lead to a loss of confidence in the entire banking sector.”
Further complicating the situation was the state of the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON). Established in 2010 to absorb bad debts from struggling banks and prevent systemic collapse, AMCON itself is facing its own challenges. With an unrecovered liability of a staggering ₦5 trillion, AMCON’s effectiveness as a safety net is in question. The Nigerian Senate’s banking committee has even called for its scrapping.
AMCON’s limitations likely narrowed the CBN’s options. In the past, troubled institutions like Skye Bank (2016) were acquired and managed by AMCON before being sold to new investors. However, AMCON’s current state rendered this solution unavailable.
Unsuccessful Rescues and Regulatory Scrutiny:
Unconfirmed reports suggest the CBN attempted to find a buyer for Heritage Bank. However, many institutions are wary of acquiring distressed banks due to the high risk involved. Heritage Bank’s ill-fated acquisition of Enterprise Bank in 2014 for ₦56 billion serves as a cautionary tale. Similarly, Access Bank’s takeover of Intercontinental Bank in 2012 faced numerous complications. Distressed banks often harbor hidden issues that due diligence cannot uncover. As one analyst noted, “An acquisition must have been unsustainable because the hole was too big to be filled.”
Aftermath and Lingering Concerns:
The CBN’s firm action against Heritage Bank sends a clear message to the financial sector: underperforming banks will not be bailed out by AMCON. While the CBN has denied plans to revoke licenses of other struggling institutions, the episode raises questions about the health of some banks and the CBN’s ability to effectively intervene. The focus now shifts towards ensuring a smooth resolution for Heritage Bank’s depositors and creditors, while regulators work to restore confidence in the Nigerian banking system. The long fall of Heritage Bank serves as a stark reminder of the importance of strong corporate governance, prudent lending practices, and a robust regulatory framework to safeguard the financial health of the nation.