Stanbic IBTC Holdings Plc posted a strong financial performance for the year ended December 31, 2025, with group profit rising sharply to N381 billion (about US$254 million), up from N225.3 billion in 2024, according to its annual results.
Total income for the period climbed to N896 billion (about US$597 million), a 38 percent increase from N647 billion the previous year, underpinned by higher lending activity and strong growth in fee‑based services.
Fee and commission revenue rose to N230.2 billion (around US$153 million), up 35 percent from N170.4 billion in 2024, while trading revenue increased to N77 billion (about US$51 million), a 33 percent year‑on‑year gain, the bank said.
Net interest income, a key driver of profitability, jumped to N585 billion (nearly US$390 million) from N410.5 billion, reflecting strong lending growth and improved asset quality.
Operating expenses also rose, increasing to N330 billion (about US$220 million) from N244 billion, largely due to higher staff and administrative costs, but the bank said the rise in costs was well matched by revenue growth.
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For the fourth quarter alone, Stanbic IBTC posted a profit of N101.2 billion (roughly US$67 million), a dramatic 652 percent increase from N13.4 billion in the final quarter of 2024, underscoring strong momentum toward the end of the year. Basic earnings per share rose to 2,368 kobo from 1,710 kobo, delivering solid returns for investors.
“This performance reflects the resilience of our diversified business model and increased customer demand across retail, corporate and investment banking,” Stanbic IBTC said in a statement.
Analysts said the results underscored the potential for Nigerian banks to deliver strong returns amid improving economic conditions. “Stanbic IBTC has effectively leveraged its market position, expanding lending while maintaining asset quality,” said a Lagos‑based banking analyst.
The bank’s results came as Nigeria’s financial sector benefited from gradual economic recovery, with higher interest rates and increased demand for credit supporting net interest margins. Continued growth in digital and transactional services also boosted fee income.
Investor reaction was positive, with Stanbic IBTC’s shares trading higher in early market activity following the release of the earnings figures.
Officials highlighted that the group’s strong balance sheet positions it to support further lending and investment opportunities in 2026. “Our capital position remains robust, enabling us to back clients across key sectors while maintaining prudent risk management,” the bank said.
Stanbic IBTC’s diversified revenue base spanning commercial banking, asset management, pensions, insurance and investment banking helped cushion the group against market volatility and rising funding costs.
“The sharp increase in profit, particularly in the fourth quarter, shows that strategic execution and disciplined cost management can yield strong results even in a challenging macroeconomic environment,” the analyst added.
As competition intensifies in Nigeria’s banking space, performance metrics such as net interest income growth and expanded fee‑based services will be critical for sustaining profitability. Stanbic IBTC said it plans to continue focusing on digital innovation and customer service to drive growth.
