ABUJA, Nigeria (AP) Shareholders of Guaranty Trust Holding Company (GTCO) have lauded the financial institution’s record dividend payout of N12.76 per share, the highest in its history, following strong 2025 earnings.
The announcement was made at GTCO’s annual general meeting, where investors welcomed the move as a sign of resilience amid Nigeria’s challenging economic climate. The payout, which translates into hundreds of billions of naira distributed to shareholders, underscores GTCO’s position as one of the country’s most profitable banks.
Market analysts noted that the dividend reflects GTCO’s robust balance sheet and consistent profitability, even as the banking sector grapples with inflationary pressures, currency volatility, and regulatory changes. Stakeholders praised the company’s ability to sustain shareholder value while expanding digital banking services and regional operations.
On social media, reactions were swift. Supporters hailed GTCO as a “model of corporate governance” and “proof that Nigerian banks can thrive globally.” Critics, however, argued that while shareholders benefit, ordinary customers continue to face high lending rates and service charges.
Opinion leaders in the financial sector emphasized that such payouts could boost investor confidence in Nigeria’s capital markets, encouraging more participation from both local and foreign investors. Policy makers also suggested that GTCO’s performance highlights the importance of strong corporate management in stabilizing the economy.
GTCO’s record dividend comes at a time when other major Nigerian banks are also reporting improved earnings, signaling cautious optimism for the sector ahead of the 2027 general elections and ongoing economic reforms.
