The recapitalization of Nigeria's banking sector has been a significant event that has occurred twice in recent decades, once in 2005 and then again in 2019. Here's a comparison of the two events:

1. 2005 Recapitalization:

• Background: The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) initiated the recapitalization exercise in 2004, with the aim of strengthening the banking sector and ensuring its competitiveness in the global financial market.
• Capital Requirement: The minimum capital requirement was raised from 2 billion Naira to 25 billion Naira for commercial banks.
• Impact: This led to significant changes in the banking landscape, with many mergers, acquisitions, and new entrants. Several banks failed to meet the new capital requirements and were either acquired or liquidated. The number of banks reduced from 89 to 25.
• Consolidation: The recapitalization exercise resulted in the consolidation of the banking industry, with larger, more capitalized banks emerging.
• Positive Outcomes: The recapitalization improved the stability and resilience of the banking sector, enhanced corporate governance practices, and increased investor confidence.

2. 2019 Recapitalization:

• Background: In 2018, the Central Bank of Nigeria announced plans to recapitalize commercial banks again to ensure financial stability and competitiveness.
• Capital Requirement: The minimum capital requirement for commercial banks was raised to 25 billion Naira for Tier 1 banks and 10 billion Naira for Tier 2 banks.
• Impact: Similar to the 2005 exercise, the 2019 recapitalization led to mergers, acquisitions, and capital injections by existing banks to meet the new requirements. The number of banks decreased further as weaker banks were unable to meet the new capital thresholds.
• Consolidation: The recapitalization exercise further consolidated the banking sector, with stronger and more resilient banks emerging.
• Technology and Innovation: The 2019 recapitalization also coincided with a push towards technology and innovation in the banking sector, with banks investing in digital transformation initiatives to improve efficiency and customer experience.
• Economic Challenges: The 2019 recapitalization occurred against the backdrop of economic challenges in Nigeria, including low oil prices and foreign exchange volatility, which impacted the banking sector.

Two decades after the 2004 reforms that significantly increased the minimum capital requirement (MCR) for Nigerian banks, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has announced another review to MCR.  This new directive mandates banks across various categories to boost their MCR within a two-year timeframe (April 1, 2024, to March 31, 2026). The focus of the increase lies in Tier 1 capital, specifically share capital and share premium excluding shareholders funds.

This emphasis suggests the CBN prioritizes fresh capital injections rather than simply relying on existing reserves. This is aimed at strengthening banks' core equity base, allowing them to cushion the effect of any loss more effectively, and fueling further expansion within the banking sector.

Generally, both recapitalization exercises aimed to strengthen the banking sector, improve financial stability, and enhance the competitiveness of Nigerian banks. While they resulted in significant changes and challenges, they also paved the way for a more resilient and efficient banking industry.