Tag: NDIC

  • NDIC reaffirms innovative digital commitment, scoops top prizes at 2024 federal innovation competition

    NDIC reaffirms innovative digital commitment, scoops top prizes at 2024 federal innovation competition

    The Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC) has reaffirmed its commitment to driving innovation and digital transformation across its operations, following its stellar performance at the 2024 Federal Public Service Innovation Competition.

    Out of 155 entries submitted by Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) for the competition organised by the Office of the (OHCSF), NDIC emerged both as the overall winner and third-place finalist, securing the first and third prizes, respectively, at the award ceremony held in Abuja on Tuesday, April 29.

    In a statement on Wednesday, NDIC’s Acting Head of Communication and Public Affairs, Hawwau Gambo, said the Corporation’s success reflects its unwavering commitment to deploying technology to enhance service delivery and employee productivity.

    Speaking on the Corporation’s commitment while receiving the team in his office, NDIC Managing Director/Chief Executive, Mr. Bello Hassan, described the double recognition as “A testament to the innovative spirit and professionalism that NDIC nurtures.

    “Our teams have once again demonstrated the Corporation’s leadership in deploying technology and creative thinking to solve real-world challenges,” underscoring the agency’s resolve to integrate digital innovation into public service delivery.

    The MD, who was represented at the ceremony by Gwa Zachary, Director of the Strategy Development Department, lauded the Office of the HOSF for fostering a culture of innovation.

    He also commended his teams for their outstanding contributions, describing their work as a reflection of the Corporation’s forward-thinking mindset and problem-solving ethos.

    According to him, NDIC’s dual success at the competition underscores its leadership role in aligning with national goals on digital transformation, cost-efficiency, and public service excellence.

    The MD pledged that the Corporation will continue supporting scalable, tech-driven solutions that improve civil service delivery and contribute to broader national development objectives.

    The Head of the Civil Service of the Federation (HOSF), Didi Walson-Jack, while announcing the results during the event, commended the Corporation for its exemplary innovation in line with federal public service reform goals.

    NDIC’s first-place-winning team, dubbed the Carpooling Team, developed a digital rideshare application aimed at reducing commuting costs for federal workers.

    The app allows staff to coordinate ride-sharing in real-time, providing a cost-effective and eco-friendly commuting alternative.

    Read Also: NDIC begins N46.6b payments to uninsured Heritage Bank’s depositors

    The innovation earned the Corporation the competition’s top prize of ₦5 million.

    A second NDIC team took third place and received ₦3 million for ‘Perfoma’, an internal digital platform designed to boost staff productivity and streamline administrative processes.

    Described as a ‘full-packaged office suite,’ Performa enables efficient document creation, tracking, and performance monitoring within departments.

    The HOSF emphasised the importance of innovation in governance, noting that it is one of the six key pillars of the Federal Civil Service Strategy and Implementation Plan 2021–2025 (FCSSIP 25).

    She commended the efforts of all participating agencies for aligning with the government’s vision of a dynamic, tech-driven public sector.

  • NDIC begins N46.6b payments to uninsured Heritage Bank’s depositors

    NDIC begins N46.6b payments to uninsured Heritage Bank’s depositors

    The Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC) has commenced the disbursement of N46.6 billion as the first tranche of liquidation dividends to depositors of the defunct Heritage Bank with funds exceeding the insured limit of N5 million.

    NDIC’s Acting Head of Communication and Public Affairs, Hawwau Gambo, yesterday said the payments began on Friday, April 25, 2025.

    The NDIC, however, reassured the public that the N46.6 billion payout is only the first tranche, emphasising that further disbursements will follow as more of the defunct bank’s assets are realised and outstanding debts are recovered

    Less than one per cent of the defunct bank’s 2.3 million depositors had balances exceeding  N5 million.

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    “This initial dividend payment is at the rate of 9.2 kobo per Naira on a pro-rata basis to depositors whose account balances exceeded the NDIC’s maximum insured limit of N5 million at the time of the bank’s closure,” Gambo said.

    Liquidation dividends represent the amount paid to depositors of a closed bank in excess of the maximum insured limit, sourced from the proceeds of asset sales and debt recoveries.

    Payments to creditors and shareholders are only made after all depositors have been fully reimbursed.

    Following the revocation of Heritage Bank’s operating licence by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) on June 3, 2024, the NDIC had promptly reimbursed insured depositors up to N5 million per account, Gambo recalled, adding that using Bank Verification Numbers (BVN), the Corporation had credited depositors’ alternate bank accounts to ensure a seamless payment process.

    To facilitate the first tranche of liquidation dividends, the NDIC leveraged records previously used for the insured payments, Gambo noted.

    She, however, urged depositors who have amounts above N5 million but have not yet received their liquidation dividends to approach the nearest NDIC office or contact the corporation through its official telephone lines.

    Meanwhile, she also encouraged depositors who do not have an alternative bank account and were not paid the insured sum to visit the nearest NDIC office or log onto the corporation’s website to download, complete, and submit the deposit verification form for processing.

    “The corporation remains committed to its vigorous efforts in asset recovery and ensuring that all eligible depositors are fully reimbursed,” Gambo said.

  • Heritage Bank: NDIC begins settlement of uninsured depositors with ₦46.6b

    Heritage Bank: NDIC begins settlement of uninsured depositors with ₦46.6b

    The Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC) has commenced the disbursement of ₦46.6 billion as the first tranche of liquidation dividends to depositors of the defunct Heritage Bank with funds exceeding the insured limit of ₦5 million.

    NDIC’s Acting Head of Communication and Public Affairs, Hawwau Gambo, who disclosed this in a statement on Sunday, added that the payments began on Friday, April 25, 2025.

    The NDIC, however, reassured the public that the ₦46.6 billion payout is only the first tranche, emphasising that further disbursements will follow as more of the defunct bank’s assets are realised and outstanding debts are recovered

    Less than one per cent of the defunct bank’s 2.3 million depositors had balances exceeding ₦5 million.

    “This initial dividend payment is at the rate of 9.2 kobo per Naira on a pro-rata basis to depositors whose account balances exceeded the NDIC’s maximum insured limit of ₦5 million at the time of the bank’s closure,” Gambo said.

    Liquidation dividends represent the amount paid to depositors of a closed bank above the maximum insured limit, sourced from the proceeds of asset sales and debt recoveries.

    Payments to creditors and shareholders are only made after all depositors have been fully reimbursed.

    Following the revocation of Heritage Bank’s operating license by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) on June 3, 2024, the NDIC had promptly reimbursed insured depositors up to ₦5 million per account, Gambo recalled, adding that using Bank Verification Numbers (BVN), the Corporation had credited depositors’ alternate bank accounts to ensure a seamless payment process.

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    To facilitate the first tranche of liquidation dividends, the NDIC leveraged records previously used for the insured payments, Gambo noted.

    She, however, urged depositors who have amounts above ₦5 million but have not yet received their liquidation dividends to approach the nearest NDIC office or contact the Corporation through its official telephone lines.

    Meanwhile, she also encouraged depositors who do not have an alternative bank account and were not paid the insured sum to visit the nearest NDIC office or log onto the Corporation’s website, www.ndic.gov.ng, to download, complete, and submit the deposit verification form for processing.

    “The Corporation remains committed to its vigorous efforts in asset recovery and ensuring that all eligible depositors are fully reimbursed,” Gambo emphasised.

  • Aggrieved bank depositors fault NDIC on planned pro-rata payment

    Aggrieved bank depositors fault NDIC on planned pro-rata payment

    Defunct Heritage Bank’s depositors with N5 million minimum balance have described as unacceptable the announcement by the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation’s (NDIC) that they will receive only partial payment of the uninsured sums.

    They stated this at the weekend while reacting to the statement by the NDIC on their initial outcry to the National Assembly to prevail on the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to ensure their trapped funds were released without further delays.

    The depositors, who had lamented the sufferings they and their loved ones were going through as a result of their inability to access their funds deposited in the defunct Heritage Bank, noted that the NDIC’s statement of March 30 that it would pay those in the category on pro-rata basis further confirmed their fears of lack of resources and underscored the urgency of the situation.

    Speaking through their leader, Ibrahim Elisha, the aggrieved depositors emphasised that the NDIC’s pro-rata payment scheme was inadequate and exposed severe funding deficiencies that could threaten public confidence in Nigeria’s banking system.

    “The dire financial predicament facing us demands swift, decisive intervention from the Presidency, National Assembly, and the CBN.

    “The NDIC has demonstrated its inability to fully reimburse affected depositors, even after liquidating the bank’s assets. A recent press statement—clearly issued in response to mounting media scrutiny—has confirmed that depositors will receive only partial payments, an unacceptable outcome that underscores the urgency of the situation.

    “The NDIC’s pro-rata payment scheme is inadequate, exposing severe funding deficiencies that threaten public confidence in Nigeria’s banking system. For nine months, depositors have endured broken promises, uncertainty, and financial hardship.

    “In times of distress, the CBN has historically provided bailout funds to stabilise financial institutions and prevent systemic collapse. It has done so in notable cases, including a N460 billion allocation to First Bank for Heritage Bank prior to its liquidation; support for the merger between Providus Bank and Unity Bank to preserve financial stability; a N700 billion lifeline extended to Unity Bank with favorable repayment terms; and the acquisition of Keystone Bank’s shares to avert institutional failure.”

    They argued that it was incomprehensible that the CBN would neglect urgent intervention in their matter.

    “Its inaction jeopardizes the entire financial ecosystem, creating unnecessary hardship for depositors who entrusted their savings to a bank that was assured to be stable.

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    “Delays are unacceptable. The credibility of Nigeria’s financial sector is on the line. If immediate bailout funds are not provided, public trust in financial institutions will erode, investor confidence will falter, and global banking observers will question Nigeria’s commitment to economic stability,” they stressed.

    The depositors urged President Bola Tinubu and the National Assembly to mandate the CBN to release the necessary funds to NDIC for full depositor reimbursement.

    They insisted: “Time is of the essence. Prolonged hesitation will intensify the crisis and inflict irreversible reputational damage. The government must step in without delay to restore trust, and protect vulnerable depositors. The consequences of inaction are far too grave. Immediate action is non-negotiable.”

    In a statement by its acting Head of Communications and Public Affairs, Hawwau Gambo, NDIC explained that the excess of the insured N5 million already reimbursed would be paid as liquidation dividends in accordance with statutory mandate.

    The statement reads: “With the considerable progress recorded in the asset realisation, the corporation will declare the first tranche of liquidation dividends in April 2025 which will be paid to uninsured depositors on a pro-rata basis, in line with Section 72 of the NDIC Act 2023 on the priority of claims.

    “For clarity, the referenced section states that: ‘Where an insured institution is unable to meet its obligations or suspends payment, or where its management and control have been taken over by the Central Bank of Nigeria following the revocation of its license, the assets of the insured institution shall be available to meet its deposit liabilities. Such deposit liabilities shall have priority over all other liabilities of the insured institution’.

    “Consequently, other claimants of the failed bank, including creditors, and shareholders, will be considered for payment of liquidation dividends only after all depositors have been fully reimbursed.

    “The NDIC wishes to reiterate its commitment to the safety of depositors’ funds in all licensed banks. Members of the public are enjoined to continue their banking activities without fear, as all other banks remain safe and sound.”

  • N5.7b judgement debts: CBN, NDIC appeal delayed over technical lapses

    N5.7b judgement debts: CBN, NDIC appeal delayed over technical lapses

    The appeal filed by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC) against the National Industrial Court’s judgment ordering them to settle over N5.7 billion in unpaid entitlements for ex-staff of non-consolidated banks was delayed due to an administrative error.

    The case, scheduled for hearing on last Monday at the Court of Appeal, Igbosere Division, Lagos, could not proceed because the presiding judge, Justice Paul Bassi, had previously ruled in favor of the respondents at the lower court before his promotion.

    Recognizing this conflict of interest, Justice Bassi informed the respondents’ counsel, Tayo Oyetibo, SAN, that the case would be reassigned to another judge, with a fresh date to be communicated.

    After the adjournment, Oyetibo addressed his clients, emphasising that the appellants could have objected had Justice Bassi proceeded with the case.

    “We came here battle-ready today, but I would like to say today is not yet your day. When we get the new date, we’ll let you know. You’ll all be happy at the end of the day,” he assured them.

    Meanwhile, Magnus Maduka, Chairman of the Association of Ex-Staff of Non-Consolidated Banks, while speaking with our correspondent exclusively, expressed optimism about the outcome, believing that justice remained on their side.

    Reflecting on the legal battle that began in 2017, Maduka remained hopeful, citing past victories as a sign of positive prospects.

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    “I think the worst is over. Most of what could have made our case a bad case has been resolved. We do have a case and we are trusting God; that’s why we won at the National Industrial Court,” he said.

    He also noted the irony of the situation, where the same judge who ruled in their favor was initially scheduled to preside over the appeal. Despite the delay, he maintained confidence in the judiciary, stating, “We are very positive about the judiciary, and it has done well in this regard.”

    It will be recalled that the banking consolidation exercise introduced by the then CBN governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo in 2006, significantly transformed the financial sector.

    Several banks that failed to meet the new ₦25 billion capital requirement were forced to shut down, resulting in mass layoffs. Unfortunately, many employees of these non-consolidated banks lost their jobs without receiving any benefits.

    The appeal filed by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC) against the National Industrial Court’s judgment ordering them to settle over N5.7 billion in unpaid entitlements for ex-staff of non-consolidated banks was delayed due to an administrative error.

    The case, scheduled for hearing on March 24 at the Court of Appeal, Igbosere Division, Lagos, could not proceed because the presiding judge, Justice Paul Bassi, had previously ruled in favor of the respondents at the lower court before his promotion.

    Recognizing this conflict of interest, Justice Bassi informed the respondents’ counsel, Tayo Oyetibo, SAN, that the case would be reassigned to another judge, with a fresh date to be communicated.

    After the adjournment, Oyetibo addressed his clients, emphasizing that the appellants could have objected had Justice Bassi proceeded with the case.

    “We came here battle-ready today, but I would like to say today is not yet your day. When we get the new date, we’ll let you know. You’ll all be happy at the end of the day,” he assured them.

    Meanwhile, Magnus Maduka, Chairman of the Association of Ex-Staff of Non-Consolidated Banks, while speaking with our correspondent exclusively, expressed optimism about the outcome, believing that justice remained on their side.

    Reflecting on the legal battle that began in 2017, Maduka remained hopeful, citing past victories as a sign of positive prospects.

    “I think the worst is over. Most of what could have made our case a bad case has been resolved. We do have a case and we are trusting God; that’s why we won at the National Industrial Court,” he said.

    He also noted the irony of the situation, where the same judge who ruled in their favor was initially scheduled to preside over the appeal. Despite the delay, he maintained confidence in the judiciary, stating, “We are very positive about the judiciary, and it has done well in this regard.”

    It will be recalled that the banking consolidation exercise introduced by the then CBN governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo in 2006, significantly transformed the financial sector.

    Several banks that failed to meet the new ₦25 billion capital requirement were forced to shut down, resulting in mass layoffs. Unfortunately, many employees of these non-consolidated banks lost their jobs without receiving any benefits.

  • NDIC tasks solicitors on debt recovery

    NDIC tasks solicitors on debt recovery

    Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC) has called on its external solicitors  to help recover debts and manage assets of failed banks, especially after the recent collapse of Heritage Bank.

    Managing Director, Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC), Mr. Bello Hassan, made this appeal yesterday in Abuja during a sensitization seminar for external solicitors aimed at strengthening cooperation between the corporation and its legal partners.

    Hassan explained that due to Heritage Bank’s closure, NDIC has hired new external solicitors to help handle legal matters.

    Mr. Hassan noted that external solicitors play a critical role in ensuring efficient debt recovery and asset realization, which are fundamental to stabilizing the Nigerian financial system.

    “I urge you external solicitors to continue your diligent efforts in assisting the Corporation with debt recovery and asset realization,” Mr. Hassan stated.

    Acknowledging that some external solicitors may not have had the opportunity to participate in previous sensitization programmes, the NDIC deemed it necessary to organize the latest seminar to strengthen the Corporation’s relationship with its legal partners while reinforcing the strategic objectives of financial system stability.

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    “This initiative reinforces the NDIC’s role in maintaining financial stability and aligns with our strategic objectives,” Hassan explained.

    The Corporation noted that a deeper understanding of the Deposit Insurance System (DIS) in Nigeria among its legal representatives would enhance case management, promote informed judicial decisions, and improve public awareness of deposit insurance practices.

    Reflecting on the recent collapse of Heritage Bank, the NDIC Managing Director acknowledged the complexities of bank liquidation and admitted the necessity of collaboration with external solicitors to navigate legal and financial challenges.

    “The recent failure of Heritage Bank has highlighted the intricate nature of bank liquidation and the vital role of collaboration with our external solicitors,” Mr. Hassan remarked.

    According to him, the Corporation has already begun to observe positive outcomes from its engagements with external legal professionals. These include: increased diligence in handling NDIC cases; more informed judicial decisions; encouraging feedback from both the bar and the bench and greater public awareness of deposit insurance practices.

    The NDIC reiterated its commitment to engaging legal experts in ensuring that depositors’ interests are protected and that failed banks’ assets are efficiently recovered and managed. The Corporation stressed that a well-functioning deposit insurance system is crucial for the overall health of the Nigerian financial sector.

    “We actively seek your continued collaboration and support in promoting financial system stability through a deeper understanding of the dynamics of the Deposit Insurance System in Nigeria,” Hassan urged the solicitors.

    As NDIC continues to deal with the aftermath of Heritage Bank’s failure, Bello Hassan said the Corporation remains steadfast in its mission to safeguard depositors, enhance financial stability, and enforce best practices in bank liquidation and debt recovery.

  • NDIC engages external solicitors for debt recovery amid Heritage Bank liquidation

    NDIC engages external solicitors for debt recovery amid Heritage Bank liquidation

    The Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC) has called on its external solicitors to help recover debts and manage assets of failed banks, especially after the recent collapse of Heritage Bank.

    The Managing Director of NDIC, Bello Hassan, made this appeal in Abuja on Thursday during a Sensitization Seminar for External Solicitors aimed at strengthening cooperation between the Corporation and its legal partners.

    Mr. Hassan explained that due to Heritage Bank’s closure, NDIC has hired new external solicitors to help handle legal matters.

    Mr. Hassan noted that external solicitors play a critical role in ensuring efficient debt recovery and asset realization, which are fundamental to stabilising the Nigerian financial system.

    “I urge you, external solicitors, to continue your diligent efforts in assisting the Corporation with debt recovery and asset realization,” Mr. Hassan stated.

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    Acknowledging that some external solicitors may not have had the opportunity to participate in previous sensitization programmes, the NDIC deemed it necessary to organize the latest seminar to strengthen the Corporation’s relationship with its legal partners while reinforcing the strategic objectives of financial system stability.

    “This initiative reinforces the NDIC’s role in maintaining financial stability and aligns with our strategic objectives,” Hassan explained.

    The Corporation noted that a deeper understanding of the Deposit Insurance System (DIS) in Nigeria among its legal representatives would enhance case management, promote informed judicial decisions, and improve public awareness of deposit insurance practices.

    Reflecting on the recent collapse of Heritage Bank, the NDIC Managing Director acknowledged the complexities of bank liquidation and admitted the necessity of collaboration with external solicitors to navigate legal and financial challenges.

    “The recent failure of Heritage Bank has highlighted the intricate nature of bank liquidation and the vital role of collaboration with our external solicitors,” Mr. Hassan remarked.

    According to him, the corporation has already begun to observe positive outcomes from its engagements with external legal professionals. These include: increased diligence in handling NDIC cases; more informed judicial decisions; encouraging feedback from both the bar and the bench and greater public awareness of deposit insurance practices.

    The NDIC reiterated its commitment to engaging legal experts in ensuring that depositors’ interests are protected and that failed banks’ assets are efficiently recovered and managed. The Corporation stressed that a well-functioning deposit insurance system is crucial for the overall health of the Nigerian financial sector.

    “We actively seek your continued collaboration and support in promoting financial system stability through a deeper understanding of the dynamics of the Deposit Insurance System in Nigeria,” Hassan urged the solicitors.

    As NDIC continues to deal with the aftermath of Heritage Bank’s failure, Bello Hassan said the Corporation remains steadfast in its mission to safeguard depositors, enhance financial stability, and enforce best practices in bank liquidation and debt recovery.

  • NDIC auctions defunct Heritage Bank’s assets

    NDIC auctions defunct Heritage Bank’s assets

    The Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC) said that it has successfully and transparently auctioned the defunct Heritage Bank’s assets which included landed properties and chattels.

    Its Managing Director, Bello Hassan, made the disclosure during the corporation’s special day at the ongoing 46th Kaduna International Trade Fair, Kaduna.

    He said the auction was in line with its statutory mandate under Section 62 (1)(d) of the NDIC Act, 2023.

    “The proceeds from the ongoing sales would be applied towards settling depositors with balances above the insured limit of N5 million, with additional payments to follow as further recoveries are made”, he said.

    Represented by the Kano Zonal Office Comptroller, Ahmad Umar, Hasdan stated that NDIC was committed to ensuring a stable financial environment that safeguards depositors and builds public confidence.

    According to him, this is to enable businesses to thrive and contribute to the nation’s economic development.

    He explained that the corporation’s mission was embodied in the tagline ‘Protecting your bank deposits’.

    This, Hassan said, was to promote financial inclusion and stability by reassuring Nigerians of the security of their savings.

    He cited an example with the recent revocation of Heritage bank’s operating licence on June 3, 2024, where the NDIC reimbursed depositors within four days using their Bank Verification Numbers (BVN).

    Hassan added that the swift action had enabled the payment of insured amounts to all the depositors other than those with no alternate accounts in other banks or those depositors whose accounts had posted no debits (PND) instructions or had no BVN.

    He explained that depositors with no BVN were being contacted by the corporation through telephone calls and text messages to come forward for verification.

    The NDIC boss reiterated the corporation’s commitment to ensuring that creditors of the defunct bank receive payments once all the depositors have been fully reimbursed.

    Hassan urged depositors of closed banks, particularly Heritage bank, who have not yet received their payments, to come forward and provide the necessary documentation supporting ownership of the accounts for reimbursement.

    Hassan said with strict regulations put in place by the agency, depositors need not worry about the safety of their money in the country’s banks.

    He said the corporation for over three decades of operation had strived to keep depositors’ confidence in the nation’s financial sector, safeguarding customers’ funds, especially the most vulnerable who would be worst hit in any unforseen circumstances.

    “The NDIC is committed to ensuring a stable financial environment that safeguards depositors and builds public confidence, enabling businesses to thrive and contribute to our nation’s economic development the corporation has played a vital role in safeguarding depositors, particularly the most vulnerable, and fortifying the financial system.

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    “Our primary objectives include insuring deposits in licensed banks, supervising financial institutions, managing distressed banks, and ensuring a smooth resolution process in the event of bank failures. We are dedicated to shielding Nigerians’ bank deposits from the adverse effects of bank failures.

    “In collaboration with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), we strive to maintain stability in the banking sector, enforce compliance with banking regulations, and exercise effective oversight over insured deposit-taking institutions. Our mission, embodied in the tagline ‘Protecting your bank deposits,’ is to promote financial inclusion and stability by reassuring Nigerians of the security of their savings,” he emphasized.

    While calling on depositors of Heritage Bank and other closed banks who were yet to receive payments to hasten to the corporation with necessary documentation, proving ownership of such accounts, such as BVN, means of identification and alternative accounts where NDIC would pay the insured sum into.

    “A recent example is the revocation of Heritage Bank’s operating license on June 3, 2024, where the NDIC reimbursed depositors within four days using their Bank Verification Numbers (BVN).

    “The swift action has enabled the payment of insured amounts to all depositors other than those with no alternate accounts in other banks or those depositors whose accounts have post no debits (PND) instructions or have no BVN. These categories of depositors are being contacted by the Corporation through telephone calls and text messages to come forward for verification,” he pointed out.

    The Corporation, according to the NDIC Boss pays depositors the maximum insured amount of the N5 million per depositor per bank from its deposit insurance funds (DIF).

    He however, stressed the role of NDIC acting as liquidator while at the same time,committed to compensating deposits with balances exceeding N5 million upon realization of the defunct bank’s assets.

    To achieve this, the corporation he said had made a significant progress in realizing the assets of the defunct banks and recovering outstanding debts to facilitate timely reimbursement of these uninsured deposits portion in the form of liquidation dividends.

    “The Corporation has successfully and transparently auctioned the failed bank’s landed properties and chattels in line with its statutory mandate under Section 62 (1)(d) of the NDIC Act, 2023.

    “The proceeds from these ongoing sales will be applied towards settling depositors with balances above the insured limit of N5 million, with additional payments to follow as further recoveries are made.

    “NDIC remains committed to ensuring that creditors of the defunct bank receive payments once all depositors have been fully reimbursed. The Corporation’s systematic approach, based on asset realization and prioritization of claims, is vital for maintaining public trust and financial stability.

    “I urge depositors of closed banks, particularly Heritage bank, who have not yet received their payments, to come forward and provide the necessary documentation supporting ownership of the account, including BVN, means of identification, and details of alternative account where the Corporation will pay the insured sum. You can submit your claims through our website, email, or social media platforms. We remain dedicated to safeguarding depositors’ funds and ensuring their timely reimbursement.

    “In collaboration with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), we strive to maintain stability in the banking sector, enforce compliance with banking regulations, and exercise effective oversight over insured deposit-taking institutions. Our mission, embodied in the tagline ‘Protecting your bank deposits,’ is to promote financial inclusion and stability by reassuring Nigerians of the security of their savings.

    “The NDIC has consistently played a crucial role in maintaining financial stability by ensuring depositors receive prompt compensation when banks fail. A recent example is the revocation of Heritage Bank’s operating license on June 3, 2024, where the NDIC reimbursed depositors within four days using their Bank Verification Numbers (BVN).

    “This swift action has enabled the payment of insured amounts to all depositors other than those with no alternate accounts in other banks or those depositors whose accounts have post no debits (PND) instructions or have no BVN. These category of depositors are being contacted by the Corporation through telephone calls and text messages to come forward for verification.

    “It is instructive to note that the Corporation pays depositors the maximum insured amount of the N5 million per depositor per bank from its deposit insurance funds (DIF).

    However, the NDIC acting as liquidator, is also committed to compensating deposits with balances exceeding N5 million upon realization of the defunct bank’s assets,” he stressed.

  • NDIC, BPP hold retreat for executive staff, procurement officers in Kano

    NDIC, BPP hold retreat for executive staff, procurement officers in Kano

    Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC), in collaboration with the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP), on Friday held a Specialised Training for executive staff and selected procurement officers.

    The workshop, held at Bristol Palace, Kano, was themed: “Developing Innovative Strategies for Effective Procurement and Financial Management”.

    Bello Hassan, NDIC’s Managing Director/Chief Executive, said the workshop aimed at ensuring efficiency, transparency and accountability, to enable the development of effective strategies in procurement processes enterprise-wide.

    “We have identified the BPP as a critical stakeholder in our attempt towards

    developing effective and efficient procurement capabilities, in realising the Corporation’s strategic thrust for performance driven culture, excellence and operational resilience, in line with its vision of becoming one of the best deposit insurers in the world.

    “To achieve this culture, one of the resolutions reached at the 2023 Executive Procurement Retreat held in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, was continuous training which underscored the critical need for capacity building for all NDIC Officers involved in the value chain of procurement process.

    “This workshop, therefore, aligns perfectly with that resolution, aims at equipping NDIC personnel with requisite knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the evolving landscape of Public Procurement practices, procedures and regulations in Nigeria,” he said.

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    According to Hassan, in today’s rapidly changing business environment, staying abreast of the current regulations, guidelines, best practices, and innovative approaches were paramount for any organisation seeking to optimise its procurement and operational functions to be counted amongst the best corporate bodies.

    He noted that the NDIC has powers of a liquidator as provided in the NDIC Act, 2023 and such powers of a liquidator under the Companies and Allied Matters Act, 2020.

    He said the Corporation must ensure that the selection of qualified service providers in the areas of valuation, disposal, debt recovery, etc in respect of failed deposit taking institution follows competitive bidding process.

    “The Corporation undertakes these activities through the selection of eligible service providers through Open Competitive Bidding (OCB).”

    “These methods of selection ensure healthy competition, transparency, fair pricing, value for money and accountability in line with the principles of public procurement.

    “The Corporation relates to procurement of goods, works and consultancy/non-consultancy services, the Corporation is bounded strictly by the provisions of Public Procurement Act (PPA) 2007 Section 15(1)(2),” the NDIC boss said.

    Director General, Bureau of Public Procurement, Dr. Adebowale Adedokun, said the theme of the workshop underscored the importance of embracing innovative and dynamic approaches in procurement processes by exploring new ways of leveraging technology, such as e-procurement platforms to streamline bureaucratic bottlenecks in procurement for operations while enhancing transparency, competition, value for money and transparency.

  • NDIC, BOFIA Acts amendment promote financial sector stability, says Abiru

    NDIC, BOFIA Acts amendment promote financial sector stability, says Abiru

    The Senate has said the timely amendments to the Nigerian Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC) Act, and the Banks and Other Financial Institutions Act (BOFIA), have laid a solid foundation for financial sector stability.

    The Chairman, Senate Committee on Banking, Insurance, and Other Financial Institutions, Senator Adetokunbo Abiru broke the news during NDIC retreat held in Lagos with theme: “Building Resilient Financial Systems through Effective Legislative Intervention”.

    According to Abiru, the Nigerian banking sector faces new and emerging risks, particularly in areas such as cybersecurity, and the rise of Fintech and digital financial services.

    He advised that legislative frameworks should evolve to keep pace with these changes. “We must ensure that regulators like the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the NDIC have the tools they need to effectively oversee the financial sector, while also encouraging innovation and competition,” he said.

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    Abiru said that as Nigerian financial system continues to embrace digital banking and financial technologies, the threats posed by cybercrime and data breaches are becoming more pronounced.

    “Recent cybersecurity incidents in the banking sector highlight the need for more stringent regulatory oversight and greater investment in cybersecurity measures. Legislative interventions must prioritize the establishment of robust cybersecurity frameworks that safeguard not only financial institutions but also the sensitive data of millions of Nigerians,” he said.

    Abiru explained that building a resilient financial system is not the sole responsibility of lawmakers or regulators. He said: “It requires the collective efforts of all stakeholders – from the banking and insurance sectors to Fintech companies, depositors, and the wider Nigerian public. Collaborative partnerships are key to ensuring that our financial systems are both resilient and inclusive”.

    In his address, Managing Director/Chief Executive of NDIC, Bello Hassan, reiterated the retreat’s purpose of enhancing collaboration with the Senate to address risks associated with advancements in technology, globalisation, and financial sector consolidation.

    He stated: “In recent years, the financial services sector has experienced significant transformation, largely driven by advances in technology, globalisation, and consolidation. New services and products have emerged, while new players and financial technologies have been challenging traditional service providers through faster, cheaper, and reliable services.”

    Hassan also stressed the importance of managing the additional risks posed by the developments. According to him, “While this development presents opportunities for growth, we must, however, be conscious of the additional risks and complexities that the system may be further exposed to. To address this concern, stakeholders, particularly those charged with oversight functions, must collaborate more than ever before.”

    He added that the legislature’s support is crucial in redesigning the legal framework to adapt to financial advancements while protecting consumers and encouraging innovation.