The Association of Securities Dealing Houses of Nigeria (ASHON) has voiced its concern over the Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN) recent directive suspending dividend payments by banks, which comes as part of its stricter stance on regulatory forbearance.
In a statement signed by its Chairman, Sam Onukwe, on June 17, 2025, ASHON described the directive’s timing as inappropriate, given efforts by banks to meet the CBN’s capital requirements.
It cautioned that the policy might hinder ongoing capital-raising efforts, especially for banks working to meet regulatory targets, by weakening investor interest.