Nigerian Banks Alert Customers, Announce Closure of Branches
- Nigerian banks and other financial institutions will close early or shut branches nationwide during the festive period
- Customers are expected to carry out transactions via ATMs, mobile apps, internet banking, and USSD platforms during the holidays
- The Federal Government has declared public holidays for Christmas, Boxing Day, and New Year's Day celebrations
Legit.ng journalist Dave Ibemere has over a decade of business journalism experience with in-depth knowledge of the Nigerian economy, stocks, and general market trends.
Nigerian banks and other financial institutions have notified customers of change in branches operations nationwide ahead of the Christmas and New Year celebrations.
The early closures follow the federal government’s declaration of public holidays for Thursday, December 25, and Friday, December 26, 2025, to mark Christmas and Boxing Day, as well as Thursday, January 1, 2026, for the New Year celebration.
Source: Getty Images
Customers are expected to carry out transactions through alternative banking channels such as Automated Teller Machines (ATMs), mobile apps, internet banking, and USSD platforms during the period of reduced branch operations.
In line with this, banks have adjusted operating hours to allow staff and customers prepare for the festive season.
Banks send messages to customers
Ecobank informed customers that its branches nationwide will close early at 1:00 pm on December 24 and December 31, with full closures on Christmas and New Year’s Day.
The bank encouraged customers to use its digital channels.
The message reads:
"Please be informed that our branches nationwide will close early to customers on Wednesday, December 24 and Wednesday, December 31, 2025 at 1:00pm.
We encourage you to make use of our digital channels, which are available 24/7 for your banking needs. These channels include Ecobank Online, Ecobank Mobile App, Ecobank Business App, "326", Cards, Omni Lite, Omni Plus, and ATMs.
"We wish you and your family a joyful holiday season filled with peace and love."
Lotus Bank, in a separate notice, said all its branches nationwide will close early at 3:00pm on December 24, 2025, and reopen on Monday, December 29, 2025.
Wema Bank also said:
"Please be informed that all our branches will close early at 2pm on December 24 and December 31. Normal banking activities resume on December 29 and January 2 respectively.
"Kindly use our alternative banking channels during this period. Thank you for your understanding."
Customers were advised to plan ahead and rely on electronic banking channels during the period.
Banks urge use of e-channels
Banks and financial institutions have assured customers that electronic banking services will not be disrupted during the holidays. Customers are encouraged to utilise ATMs, mobile and internet banking platforms, USSD codes, and card services to ensure seamless transactions throughout the festive period.
Source: Getty Images
How banks operate during the holiday
- Tuesday, December 24 – Early branch closure
- Wednesday, December 25 – Full branch closure
- Wednesday, December 31 – Early branch closure
- Thursday, January 1 – Full branch closure
Nigerian bank shuts down, updates social media accounts
Earlier, Legit.ng reported that Titan Trust Bank Limited has officially changed its social media handles to Union Bank of Nigeria, formally ending its existence as a separate entity.
The decision was sealed after the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) finally approved its long-awaited merger.
Union Bank said that both institutions will continue to operate under its 108-year-old brand name.
Source: Legit.ng
