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VENO tv: Business Access Holdings Delivers Over N1trn PBT, Signals Strategic Shift To Value Creation
Date: 01-05-26

Access Holdings Plc has reported a profit before tax of over N1 trillion for the financial year ended December 31, 2025, marking a pivotal shift in its corporate strategy from scale-driven expansion to value-focused growth.

The Group’s audited results show profit before tax rose by 16.2 per cent to N1.01 trillion, underscoring its transition toward improved earnings quality, operational efficiency, and sustainable returns.

Gross earnings performance remained robust, with net interest income climbing to N1.36 trillion, while net fees and commission income surged by 40.9 per cent to N585.1 billion, reflecting increasing diversification of revenue streams. Overall operating income after impairment grew by 23.9 per cent to N3.17 trillion.

Cost efficiency also improved, as the Group’s cost-to-income ratio declined to 51.7 per cent from 56.7 per cent in 2024. Profitability metrics remained solid, with return on average equity at 18.4 per cent and return on average assets at 1.6 per cent, indicating strong earnings quality.

Commenting on the results, Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Innocent C. Ike, said the performance reflects the resilience of the franchise and the strength of its governance framework.

“Our 2025 performance reflects both the resilience of the Access franchise and the strength of the institution we have built over time. Despite a dynamic operating environment, we delivered strong earnings supported by diversified income streams, disciplined execution, and a continued focus on balance sheet optimisation,” he said.

He added that the Group has now entered a more deliberate optimisation phase, with emphasis on returns on capital, earnings quality, and long-term value creation.

The balance sheet expanded significantly during the year, with total assets rising by 24.3 per cent to N51.57 trillion, while customer deposits grew by 53.4 per cent to N34.56 trillion. Shareholders’ funds also increased by 15 per cent to N4.33 trillion, reflecting retained earnings and sustained investor confidence.

Macroeconomic conditions provided a supportive backdrop, as Nigeria’s economic growth improved to about 3.9 per cent, inflation moderated, and external reserves rose above $45 billion. The NGX All Share Index gained over 51 per cent during the period, signalling stronger investor sentiment and capital market activity.

While banking continues to account for about 97 per cent of total revenue, Access Holdings is advancing its diversification strategy. Its investment and insurance subsidiaries, including Access ARM Pensions and Access Insurance Brokers, continue to provide stable income streams, while digital platforms such as Oxygen X Finance and Hydrogen Payment Services are strengthening its footprint in financial technology.

The Group’s evolving strategy reflects a clear shift from aggressive expansion to value optimisation, with management prioritising capital efficiency, cost discipline, and sustainable earnings growth.

Looking ahead, the Group expects further macroeconomic stabilisation to support credit expansion and transaction volumes, while maintaining a disciplined approach to execution across its diversified operations.

“Africa remains one of the most compelling long-term growth frontiers globally.

“Our role is not only to participate in that growth, but to help shape and finance it,” Ike said, adding that the Group remains focused on delivering consistent, risk-adjusted returns and building a resilient institution for the future.

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