Zenith Bank Plc has reported a Profit Before Tax (PBT) of N1.26 trillion for the 2025 financial year, alongside a 100 per cent increase in dividend payout to shareholders, underscoring its resilience amid balance sheet adjustments.
According to its audited full-year results ended December 31, 2025, the bank posted gross earnings of N4.19 trillion, representing a six per cent increase from N3.97 trillion recorded in 2024.
The performance was driven largely by a 35 per cent surge in interest income to N3.7 trillion, supported by higher asset yields, growth in interest-earning assets, and improved pricing strategies. Net interest income also rose significantly by 53 per cent to N2.6 trillion, reflecting strong core earnings.
Despite these gains, Profit Before Tax declined by five per cent, largely due to the clean-up of loan facilities previously under regulatory forbearance. However, Profit After Tax edged up by one per cent to N1.04 trillion, with Earnings Per Share standing at N25.32.
Customer deposits grew by 11 per cent to N24 trillion, driven by increases across both corporate and retail segments, reinforcing the bank’s strong funding base. Gross loans rose moderately to N11 trillion, with growth tempered by the write-off of forbearance-related exposures, an action that significantly improved asset quality.
The bank’s Non-Performing Loan (NPL) ratio improved to 3.8 per cent from 4.7 per cent in 2024, while its coverage ratio remained strong at 173 per cent, highlighting prudent risk management.
Adaora Umeoji, Group Managing Director/CEO, said the results reflect disciplined execution and a focus on sustainable growth.
“Our 2025 results are a reflection of the discipline and focus with which we executed our strategy. We strengthened asset quality, optimised our balance sheet, and invested in capabilities that will drive our next phase of growth,” she said.
Key performance indicators remained solid, with Return on Average Equity at 23.2 per cent and Return on Average Assets at 3.4 per cent. Net Interest Margin stood at 13.7 per cent, reinforcing the sustainability of earnings.
However, the cost-to-income ratio rose to 45.2 per cent, driven by higher impairment charges and persistent inflationary pressures.
The bank maintained strong capital and liquidity buffers, with Capital Adequacy Ratio at 25 per cent and Liquidity Ratio at 71 per cent, well above regulatory thresholds.
In line with its strong performance, the Board proposed a final dividend of N8.75 per share. Combined with an interim dividend of N1.25, total dividend for 2025 stands at N10.00 per share, double the N5.00 paid in the previous year.
Umeoji noted that the bank is entering 2026 in a stronger position, with a focus on sustaining growth, supporting customers, and delivering long-term value to stakeholders.
