The Central Bank of Nigeria has directed banks across the country to restrict certain banking services for large borrowers with non-performing loans in a move aimed at strengthening credit discipline and protecting the stability of the financial system.
The directive was contained in a letter dated March 12, 2026, addressed to all banks and signed by the Director of Banking Supervision, Olubukola Akinwunmi.
According to the apex bank, borrowers whose loan facilities have been classified as non-performing and captured in the Credit Risk Management System or in any licensed private credit bureau will no longer be eligible to access additional credit facilities from banks.
The CBN said the measure forms part of its ongoing efforts to curb rising loan defaults, enforce responsible borrowing, and maintain the soundness of Nigeria’s banking sector.
