The Senate Committee on Banking, Insurance, and Other Financial Institutions has urged the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC) to ensure maximum asset recovery from Heritage Bank to fully compensate affected depositors and stakeholders. This appeal was made during the NDIC’s retreat in Lagos, themed Building Resilient Financial Systems through Effective Legislative Intervention.
The Chairman of the Senate Committee, Senator Adetokunbo Abiru, praised the NDIC’s rapid response in protecting depositors and restoring confidence after the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) revoked Heritage Bank’s license in June. Abiru emphasized the importance of securing the best possible returns from the bank’s remaining assets to meet outstanding claims, noting that the NDIC’s prompt action in compensating depositors had already eased distress for many. “Your commitment to resolving this complex matter is commendable,” he said, urging the NDIC to streamline liquidation payments to individual and corporate clients alike.
Since taking over as liquidator, the NDIC has implemented a verification process through Bank Verification Numbers (BVNs), allowing depositors to access their funds quickly. Managing Director Bello Hassan highlighted the NDIC’s initiatives to protect consumers, including a recent increase in deposit insurance coverage to ₦5 million per account holder, effectively securing 99% of depositors in case of bank failure. Hassan also called for ongoing collaboration with legislative bodies to address emerging risks, especially as financial services shift increasingly towards technology.
As digital banking expands, Abiru emphasized that regulatory frameworks must adapt to protect against cyber threats. He encouraged increased legislative oversight and investment in cybersecurity measures to safeguard sensitive financial data and maintain public confidence in Nigeria’s financial institutions.
With the NDIC intensifying efforts in debt recovery and public awareness, Hassan reiterated that the corporation’s goal is to maintain transparency, protect small depositors, and support an adaptable, secure banking ecosystem across Nigeria.
Be First to Comment