Nigerian Banks Shut Down 229 Branches as Cost Pressures and Digital Shift Deepen

West Africa WeeklyJanuary 5, 20261 Mins read438

Nigeria’s banking sector has witnessed a significant contraction, with commercial banks shutting down a combined 229 branches across the country, reflecting rising operational costs, economic strain, and a growing shift toward digital banking.

Industry data shows that the closures cut across several major banks, with institutions citing escalating expenses, currency instability, and declining foot traffic at physical locations as key reasons. Rising energy costs, including reliance on generators due to unreliable electricity supply, have made branch operations increasingly unsustainable, particularly outside major commercial hubs.

Bank executives have also pointed to the rapid adoption of mobile and online banking as a structural shift reducing the need for brick-and-mortar branches. Millions of customers now rely on digital platforms for transfers, payments, and account management, accelerating a transition that began before the current economic downturn.

However, labour unions and consumer advocates warn that the closures could worsen unemployment and reduce financial access in rural and semi-urban areas where digital infrastructure remains weak. They argue that while banks are cutting costs, ordinary Nigerians are being left behind.

Regulators have yet to formally intervene, though analysts expect further consolidation if economic conditions remain tight.