Banking
Fitch: Our Risk Management Framework Remains Robust—Afreximbank
By Adedapo Adesanya
The African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) has reaffirming its strong financial position, rigorous risk management framework, and adherence to international reporting standards following issues around Fitch Ratings report.
Recall that Fitch Ratings, in its June 4, 2025, assessment, downgraded the bank’s credit rating one place above junk, as well as its substantial provisions on sovereign exposures, which reduce potential financial risks.
However, Fitch acknowledged Afreximbank’s strong capitalization, including its strong equity to assets and guarantees ratio and excellent internal capital generation.
The issue has led to a mild row between the African Union and the agency, with plans to launch an Africa-focused credit rating agency now in focus.
In the statement on Tuesday, Afreximbank emphasized that its financial reporting strictly follows International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), including IFRS 9, which governs loan classification and non-performing loan (NPL) assessments.
The bank clarified that while Fitch’s NPL definition differs from its forward-looking approach, its methodology is fully detailed in its 2024 Financial Statements and independently verified by external auditors.
Fitch’s negative outlook was attributed to concerns over potential sovereign debt restructuring involving Afreximbank’s member states.
However, the bank firmly stated that its establishment treaty—signed by all 53 participating African states—prohibits it from engaging in sovereign debt restructuring negotiations.
“Afreximbank would like to reaffirm that it is not participating in debt restructuring negotiations related to any of its member countries,” the statement read. “To do so would be inconsistent with the bank establishment treaty, which governs our operations.”
Fitch also recognized Afreximbank’s low concentration risk and strong liquidity position, rating its treasury assets as high quality, with the lender reiterating that its risk management framework remains robust, supported by its solid capitalization and prudent financial policies.
“Afreximbank remains steadfast in its mission to drive trade-led growth, economic development, and macroeconomic stability across Africa.
“Despite external assessments, the Bank expressed confidence in its financial resilience, governance standards, and unwavering commitment to its member states,” it added.
“Our financial strength, governance, and dedication to Africa’s prosperity remain unshaken,” the statement concluded. “We will continue to support our member countries in overcoming economic challenges while advancing sustainable development.”
By Modupe Gbadeyanka
Stakeholders in the underwriting sector are currently discussing how the working group of Nigeria can plan for the rainy days, especially when they no longer have the strength to run around to make ends meet.
They are attending the second edition of Stanbic IBTC Insurance Annuitant Forum being held virtually with the theme Making the Most of Life in Retirement.
Retirement is often viewed as a new beginning, an opportunity to enjoy the fruits of one’s lifetime work.
The subsidiary of Stanbic IBTC Holdings Plc organised this programme in line with its mission to support clients through every stage of life.
The virtual format ensures wider access, allowing retirees and those planning for retirement to engage in meaningful, interactive discussions on topics that matter most, ranging from health and wellness, estate planning, and expert insights on securing a fulfilling retirement.
Participants can look forward to discussions on long-term income strategies, the vital role of insurance in maintaining financial stability and how organisations can better support their staff’s retirement journeys. The event will also touch on lifestyle aspects such as wellness, leisure, and personal growth; reinforcing the idea that retirement is a time to thrive.
“Retirement is a significant milestone that should be embraced with purpose, security and fulfilment. Unfortunately, many are unprepared for the realities that come with this phase.
“Our goal with this forum is to provide both retirees and employers with practical guidance and holistic advice, helping them navigate this new chapter confidently,” the chief executive of Stanbic IBTC Insurance, Mr Akinjide Orimolade, stated.
The Stanbic IBTC Insurance Annuitant Forum has become an important platform for the organisation to connect with its retirees, strengthen relationships, and reaffirm its leadership in retirement planning solutions.
By hosting the event virtually, the company is committed to making this resource accessible to retirees nationwide, ensuring that no one is left behind in planning for a rewarding retirement.
By Aduragbemi Omiyale
Seven mortgage banks operating in Nigeria have been blacklisted by the National Pension Commission (PenCom) over non-compliance with housing loan guidelines.
In a circular dated August 11, 2025, signed by the Head of Benefits and Insurance Department, Obiora Ibeziako, the regulator directed the Pension Fund Administrators (PFAs) and Pension Fund Custodians (PFCs) to immediately stop accepting or processing equity contribution applications from the real estate banks.
It was learned that the lenders failed to generate the loans for which pension funds had been approved.
According to the notice, the affected institutions as Jigawa Savings & Loans Limited, FHA Mortgage Bank Limited, Delta Trust Mortgage Bank Limited, AG Mortgage Bank Limited, Infinity Trust Mortgage Bank Plc, First Trust Mortgage Bank Limited, and Mutual Alliance Mortgage Bank Limited.
“Following the cited letter, the commission instructs that Pension Fund Administrators, including Closed Pension Fund Administrators and Pension Fund Custodians, immediately stop accepting or processing equity contribution applications submitted by the following Primary Mortgage Banks,” a part of the disclosure stated.
By Aduragbemi Omiyale
Pioneer non-interest financial institution in Nigeria, Jaiz Bank Plc, has announced a change to its brand identity, adopting new colours and logo to reflect its vision for the future.
In a statement signed by its Company Secretary, Mr Mohammed Shehu, it was disclosed that the new colours are deep blue, yellow, and grey.
In the statement, Jaiz Bank noted that, “The rebranding reflects our renewed commitment to empowering individuals, businesses, and communities with smarter financial solutions.
The Islamic lender, which said it’s committed to innovation, trust, and customer-centric banking, said, “The new brand represents more than just a colour and logo change; it is a reflection of the bank’s evolution and aspirations building a future-ready bank that is agile, inclusive, and deeply connected to the needs of our customers.”
“The new colours and logo represent Trust, Stability, Professionalism, Energy, Optimism, Visibility, Balance, and Sophistication,” it emphasised.
While “inviting stakeholders, partners, and customers to join us in celebrating this exciting new chapter, Jaiz Bank noted that rebranding became effective today, Tuesday, August 19, 2025.”
It described the “strategic transformation” as a “significant milestone in the bank’s journey to better serve its customers, embrace digital innovation, and expand its footprint in the financial services industry.”
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