Nigeria’s newly merged lender, ProvidusUnity Bank, says it hopes to accelerate financial inclusion, strengthen lending capacity, and support Nigeria’s economic growth.
The new bank, made up of Providus Bank and Unity Bank, is set to commence operations as a single unified institution following the successful completion of their business combination and the conclusion of all required regulatory, shareholder, and judicial processes.
A statement from the bank on Sunday stated that the newly formed entity represents a consolidated banking institution positioned to strengthen capitalisation, expand national coverage, deepen financial inclusion, and support Nigeria’s long-term economic ambitions.
The merger brings together Providus Bank’s innovation-driven, customer-centric service model and digital capabilities with Unity Bank’s extensive geographic reach and established market presence, creating a broader platform for retail, SME, and corporate banking services across the country.
The development aligns with ongoing reforms in Nigeria’s financial sector aimed at strengthening institutional resilience, safeguarding depositor confidence, improving competitiveness, and building banks capable of supporting economic transformation.
The bank expressed appreciation to the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) for its role in facilitating the transaction and for its commitment to strengthening the banking system. It also acknowledged the support of shareholders, customers, employees, and other stakeholders.
ProvidusUnity Bank said the merger is expected to enhance Nigeria’s financial sector capacity to mobilise investment, support enterprise development, expand access to credit, and contribute to the country’s aspiration of building a trillion-dollar economy.
Earlier this month, the Supreme Court ordered the transfer of all assets, liabilities and undertakings, including real properties, of Unity Bank to Providus Bank in accordance with the approved Scheme of Merger. The merger between the two lenders was challenged by customers and shareholders of the affected banks, Mr Suleiman Abubakar and Mr Mohammed Goni Modu.
The apex court held that the appeal lacked merit and accordingly dismissed it in its entirety, while imposing costs of N10 million in favour of each respondent. As part of the merger arrangements, the apex court approved a consideration of N3.18 per share or 18 Providus Bank shares of 50 kobo each for every 17 Unity Bank shares held by shareholders.
For customers, the new bank said the integration will deliver expanded access, improved service delivery, stronger technology infrastructure, broader banking channels, and a wider national footprint designed to improve consistency and efficiency of services.
It added that customers should expect continuity in service in the immediate term, with gradual access to enhanced products and broader capabilities over time.
For employees, the bank said the transaction represents continuity, opportunity and stability, adding that it remains committed to retaining talent, preserving institutional knowledge and supporting career growth within the new organisation.