The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has directed banks to restrict access to certain banking services for large-ticket borrowers with non-performing loans in a move to strengthen credit discipline and protect financial system stability.
The directive, issued in a circular dated March 12, 2026, and signed by the Director of Banking Supervision, Olubukola Akinwunmi, states that borrowers with non-performing loans recorded in the Credit Risk Management System (CRMS) or any licensed private credit bureau will no longer be eligible for additional credit facilities.
The apex bank also barred such borrowers from accessing banking services such as letters of credit, performance bonds, bankers’ confirmations and advance payment guarantees.
The restrictions apply to large-ticket obligors whose total exposure across banks exceeds the Single Obligor Limit or poses systemic risks to the banking system.
The CBN said banks must also obtain additional realisable collateral from affected borrowers to secure existing loans, warning that non-compliance will attract sanctions under the Banks and Other Financial Institutions Act 2020.
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