Alert Group Sets Ambitious Targets for 2026 with National MFB Licence
Alert Group has secured a national microfinance banking (MFB) licence from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), setting aggressive goals to expand its financial footprint. The group aims to increase its total assets from N90 billion to N250 billion by the end of 2026, while also projecting loan disbursements to rise from a previously announced target of N130 billion to N180 billion.
Upgrade and Financial Milestones
During a media briefing in Lagos, Dr Olanrewaju Kazeem, Group Chief Executive Officer of Alert Group, detailed the requirements for upgrading from a state to a national MFB licence. This transition mandated raising shareholders' funds above the N5 billion minimum threshold, a benchmark the institution has surpassed. Kazeem revealed that the group's shareholders' fund currently stands at over N6 billion and has recently grown to approximately N7.7 billion.
With the national licence in hand, the company has revised its full-year total asset projection upward from an initial figure of less than N3 billion. This strategic move underscores the group's commitment to scaling its operations and enhancing its market presence in Nigeria's financial sector.
Focus on MSME Financing
Kazeem emphasized that less than 10 per cent of the group's total disbursements are allocated to consumer lending, with the majority directed toward business financing for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs). This focus aligns with broader economic goals to support entrepreneurship and drive growth in key sectors.
Strong First Quarter Performance
Providing an update on the first quarter of 2026, Kazeem reported that the group achieved key financial indicators with growth rates between 35 per cent and 40 per cent, exceeding its internal quarterly benchmarks. Specifically, total assets grew from N63 billion to N90 billion during the three-month period, while the gross loan portfolio expanded from N50 billion to N64 billion.
This robust performance highlights the group's operational efficiency and strategic positioning to meet its ambitious targets for the year. As Alert Group leverages its national licence, it aims to play a pivotal role in fostering financial inclusion and economic development across Nigeria.
