BY NKECHI NAECHE-ESEZOBOR— The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), on Monday said it has revoked the banking license of Heritage Bank with immediate effect in accordance with its mandate to promote a sound financial system in Nigeria and in exercise of its powers vunder Section 12 of the Banks and Other Financial Act (BOFIA) 2020.
This was contained in a circular signed by Hakama Sidi Ali (Mrs.) Ag. Director, Corporate Communication, of the bank that “This action has become necessary due to the bank’s breach of Section 12 (1) of BOFIA, 2020.
The Board and Management of the bank have not been able to improve the bank’s financial performance, a situation which constitutes a threat to financial stability.
“This follows a period during which the CBN engaged with the bank and prescribed various supervisory steps intended to stem the decline. Regrettably, the bank has continued to suffer and has no reasonable prospects of recovery, thereby making the revocation of the license the next necessary step.
“Consequently, the CBN has taken this action to strengthen public confidence in the
banking system and ensure that the soundness of our financial system is not impaired.
“The Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC) is hereby appointed as the Liquidator of the bank in accordance with Section 12 (2) of BOFIA, 2020.
“The apex bank however assured the public that the Nigerian financial system remains on a solid footing. ‘The action we are taking today reflects our continued commitment to take all
necessary steps to ensure the safety and soundness of our financial system.”
