Access Bank Expands East Africa Reach with NBK Deal

Access Bank has officially wrapped up its acquisition of the National Bank of Kenya (NBK), a move that strengthens its footprint in East Africa and signals serious intentions to compete in the region’s crowded financial market. The Nigerian banking giant revealed the completion of the deal earlier this week through its official X page, marking another step in its plan to become a dominant pan-African player.

With Kenya acting as a key regional hub for commerce, Access Bank sees the integration of NBK as more than just an expansion — it’s a strategic pivot. According to the statement, this merger combines NBK’s local knowledge with Access Bank’s international strength to deliver enhanced financial services to both individuals and institutions.

“With NBK’s heritage and local expertise, combined with our innovative, global network, we are ready to drive growth and support progress where it matters most,” the bank said in its official communication.

Regulatory Greenlight and Restructuring

The acquisition received all necessary nods from Kenya’s top financial authorities. The Central Bank of Kenya approved the transaction on April 4, 2025, under Section 13(4) of the Banking Act. Final consent came from the Cabinet Secretary for the National Treasury and Economic Planning on April 10, 2025, under Section 9 of the same law.

In preparation for the deal, some of NBK’s assets and liabilities were handed over to KCB Bank Kenya Limited, a subsidiary of KCB Group. This restructuring was approved by both the Central Bank and the National Treasury, ensuring that the transition stayed smooth and compliant with local regulations.

Now officially part of Access Bank’s portfolio, NBK adds fresh local energy to the bank’s ambitions while positioning the merged institution more strongly within Kenya’s competitive financial services space.