Quest Merchant Bank Limited has recorded another year of impressive growth and resilience, as shareholders at the Bank’s 11th Annual General Meeting (AGM) approved the Audited Financial Statements for the year ended December 31, 2025, and applauded management for its outstanding financial performance, successful recapitalisation, and strategic vision for sustained growth.
The AGM comes on the heels of two significant milestones for the Bank: the successful acquisition of Quest Merchant Bank by Everquest Acquisition LLP, a special purpose vehicle led by Custodian Investments Plc, and the achievement of the Central Bank of Nigeria’s ₦50 billion minimum capital requirement ahead of the regulatory deadline.
Presenting the Bank’s performance to shareholders, management highlighted a strong financial year marked by substantial growth across key performance indicators. Gross earnings rose by 29 per cent year-on-year to ₦81.5 billion, driven by increased net interest income and improved asset yields. Profit before tax grew by 23 per cent, while operating efficiency strengthened significantly, as reflected in a 2.3 percentage-point improvement in the Bank’s cost-to-income ratio.
The Bank also maintained robust liquidity levels and strong asset quality while continuing to enhance its governance, risk management, and compliance frameworks to align with evolving regulatory requirements and industry best practices.
Speaking at the AGM, the Acting Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Afolabi Olorode, attributed the Bank’s strong performance to a focused strategy built on operational excellence, innovation, customer-centricity, and disciplined execution.
“Our strategic focus remains clear: to build a leading merchant bank anchored on strong capital, innovation, execution excellence, and deep client relationships. With our enhanced capital base and the launch of our 2026–2030 Strategic Plan, Quest Merchant Bank is exceptionally well-positioned to support critical sectors of the economy while delivering superior value to shareholders and stakeholders alike,” Olorode stated.
He further noted that the Bank would continue to strengthen its capabilities across Corporate and Investment Banking, Wealth Management, and Global Markets, while accelerating investments in technology, talent development, and operational resilience to drive long-term growth.
During the meeting, shareholders also approved several key resolutions, including the payment of dividends, the election of directors, and amendments to the Bank’s Memorandum and Articles of Association.
Reinforcing its commitment to sustainable development and social impact, Quest Merchant Bank expanded its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives during the year through financial literacy programmes, youth empowerment projects, healthcare interventions, and inclusive education partnerships aimed at fostering broader economic participation and community development.
Looking ahead, the Bank reaffirmed its commitment to innovation, sustainable finance, and strategic expansion, while continuing to support Nigeria’s economic transformation through impactful financial intermediation, advisory services, and value-driven partnerships.
With a stronger capital base, renewed shareholder confidence, and a clear strategic roadmap, Quest Merchant Bank remains well-positioned to deliver sustainable growth and create long-term value for its stakeholders.
