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Access Holdings Plc has said it is entering a new phase focused on disciplined value creation and stronger long-term returns, as it marked its 4th Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Lagos with a review of its 2025 performance.
The Group reported a Profit Before Tax of N1.007 trillion for the year, alongside a rise in total assets to N51.56 trillion and continued growth in customer deposits, reflecting sustained expansion across its financial services ecosystem.
Chairman, Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, told shareholders that the institution is deliberately prioritising balance sheet strength and earnings quality over short-term profit gains, especially in a challenging macroeconomic environment.
He said the Group’s performance reflects a strategic decision to reinforce long-term stability, even where it required higher impairment charges due to increased provisioning on legacy and regulatory forbearance-related loan exposures.
According to him, the approach underscores a shift in focus toward resilience, disciplined risk management and sustainable profitability.
The Chairman said periods of economic uncertainty often expose the true strength of financial institutions, adding that Access Holdings is committed to building a business capable of enduring market cycles.
The AGM highlighted the Group’s continued expansion beyond banking into pensions, insurance, payments, consumer finance and asset management, as part of its broader financial services strategy.
Subsidiaries including Access ARM Pensions, Access Insurance Brokers, Oxygen X Finance and Hydrogen Payments were identified as key contributors to the Group’s diversification drive.
Management said these businesses are helping to broaden revenue streams and reduce reliance on traditional banking income, while positioning the Group for long-term scalability.
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Aig-Imoukhuede said the Group’s strategy, described as “From Scale to Value,” reflects a deliberate transition from rapid expansion to optimising efficiency and shareholder returns.
He added that future performance would be measured by the ability to consistently generate returns above the cost of capital, not just growth in earnings.
On dividend payments, the Board explained that the temporary suspension was due to regulatory requirements and not a reflection of operational weakness.
It assured shareholders that dividends would resume once the relevant conditions are met, while retained earnings continue to support capital strengthening and future growth.
The AGM also confirmed key leadership changes, including the appointment of Innocent C. Ike as Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer and the addition of Ibironke Adeyemi as an Independent Non-Executive Director.
Shareholders acknowledged the role of Bolaji Agbede, who previously served as Acting Group Chief Executive Officer during the transition period, with the Board commending the smooth leadership handover.
Despite ongoing economic pressures across its operating environment, Access Holdings said it remains confident in its outlook, supported by a diversified portfolio, stronger capital base and disciplined execution strategy.
The Group reiterated its commitment to building a resilient financial institution capable of delivering sustainable returns and long-term value across Africa and key international markets.
