Ecobank Shareholders Approve First Dividend Payment Since 2022 Following Record 2025 Performance

Shareholders of Ecobank Transnational Incorporated (ETI), the parent company of the Ecobank Group, have approved all resolutions presented at the bank’s 2026 Annual General Meeting (AGM) held in Lomé, Togo, including the payment of a final dividend for the 2025 financial year.

The approved dividend of 0.16 US cents per share marks Ecobank’s first dividend payment to shareholders since 2022, reflecting the Group’s improved financial strength and strong business performance.

The dividend approval follows a record-breaking year for the pan-African banking group. For the year ended December 31, 2025, Ecobank reported a Profit Before Tax of US$801 million, representing a 21% increase compared to the previous year. Net revenues also grew by 17% to US$2.45 billion, while pre-provision, pre-tax operating profit rose by 29% to US$1.27 billion.

According to the bank, the strong performance demonstrates the success of its Growth, Transformation and Returns (GTR) strategy, which has focused on strengthening the Group’s financial position, improving operational efficiency, and creating long-term value for shareholders.

Ecobank also maintained a strong capital position, with a capital adequacy ratio of 16.7%, well above regulatory requirements. This provided the financial flexibility needed to resume dividend payments while supporting future growth initiatives.

Shareholders also approved the Group’s audited financial statements, the re-election of directors, and the appointment of Cathia Lawson Hall as a new member of the Board of Directors.

Speaking at the AGM, Chairman of the Board, Papa Madiaw Ndiaye, described the dividend payment as a reflection of the Group’s resilience and disciplined execution.

“Our strong 2025 financial performance has marked the return to dividend payments to our shareholders. This US$40 million dividend reflects the strength of our pan-African business model, institutional maturity, and the dedication of our employees,” he said.

He noted that Ecobank’s diversified presence across multiple African markets and sectors continues to support sustainable growth while helping the Group remain resilient through changing economic conditions.

Group Chief Executive Officer Jeremy Awori said shareholders had reaffirmed their confidence in the bank’s Growth, Transformation and Returns strategy.

He explained that the Group remains focused on driving growth, facilitating payments and trade across Africa, and building the financial infrastructure needed to support the continent’s future economic development.

Ecobank Group is one of Africa’s leading banking institutions, operating in 34 sub-Saharan African countries as well as France, the United Kingdom, the United Arab Emirates, and China. Through its extensive network, the bank provides services in payments, cash management, trade finance, and investment solutions across the continent.