National Bank of Kenya (NBK), a wholly owned subsidiary of Access Bank PLC, has reported a strong financial performance for the year ended 31 December 2025, posting significant growth in profitability, strengthened capital position, and improved asset quality following its integration into the Access Group.
Profit before Tax rose sharply to Shs2.91 billion, up from Shs1.05 billion in 2024, representing a 178% increase, while Profit after tax grew to Shs2.39 billion, up from Shs1.06 billion in 2024, representing a 125% increase.
“The Bank’s performance reflects disciplined execution of our turnaround priorities and a sustained focus on strengthening the balance sheet, improving asset quality and enhancing operational efficiency. We are confident that this momentum will continue as we scale the business. While we have made strong progress in stabilizing the business, we are now focused on accelerating growth and unlocking the full potential of the bank in the years ahead,” said George Odhiambo, Managing Director of the National Bank of Kenya.
The results mark the Bank’s first full reporting period following the completion of the acquisition by Access Bank PLC in May 2025, a development that accelerated the Bank’s transformation agenda and reinforced its long-term growth prospects.
Financial Performance
NBK delivered strong improvements across key financial indicators during the period under review.
Net Interest Income grew to Shs10.3 billion and a 33% reduction in interest expenses, while operating expenses declined to Shs8.49 billion from Shs9.18 billion in 2024.
Asset quality improved significantly, with allowances for expected credit losses declining to Shs1.5 billion, down from Shs2.4 billion the previous year, representing a 37% improvement.
“This year’s performance demonstrates the Bank’s strengthened foundation and its readiness to create long-term value. We remain committed to enhancing customer experiences, delivering innovative solutions and supporting sustainable economic development across Kenya. With these achievements, we are well-positioned to pursue strategic initiatives that will shape the Bank’s future and reinforce its role as a trusted partner to businesses and communities alike,” he added.
Balance Sheet Strengthening
NBK continues to strengthen its balance sheet as part of its strategic repositioning.
Customer Deposits increased to Shs106 billion, up from Shs98 billion in 2024.
In addition, total Assets closed the year at Shs141.3 billion, compared to Shs148.3 billion in 2024, while the Bank’s total equity rose to Shs17.0 billion, compared to Shs13.4 billion in the previous year.
Meanwhile, Net Loans and Advances stood at Shs51billion, down from Shs75billion, largely due to acquisition-related asset transfers and the Bank’s deliberate shift towards a more risk‑adjusted lending strategy.
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As a result of improved financial performance and lower risk-weighted assets, the Bank’s capital ratios strengthened significantly, bringing NBK into full compliance with all regulatory capital requirements.
Business Transformation
The year marked a major milestone for NBK following the successful acquisition by Access Bank PLC on 30 May 2025, resulting in the lender becoming a wholly owned subsidiary of the pan-African Banking Group.
Selected assets and liabilities were transferred under the Share Purchase Agreement, enabling the Bank to adopt a leaner balance sheet and a stronger profile.
NBK also transitioned to enhanced risk management, credit underwriting, and operational frameworks, contributing directly to improved asset quality, better funding structure, and greater operational efficiency.
The improved financial performance reflects the success of NBK’s turnaround strategy, driven by disciplined execution, improved asset quality, and renewed customer confidence.
Strategic Launch: W Initiative
In recognition of the pivotal role women play in driving Kenya’s socio‑economic advancement, NBK rolled out the W Initiative in 2025, a transformative program designed to empower women entrepreneurs and professionals. The Initiative provides comprehensive support through tailored financial solutions, business advisory services, capacity‑building programs, and access to strategic networks. By equipping women with the tools, knowledge, and capital they need, the W Initiative aims to accelerate the growth of women‑led enterprises and promote long‑term, sustainable economic development across the country.
Outlook for 2026
Looking ahead, NBK expects a positive momentum to continue in 2026 as it deepens its transformation strategy and strengthens its market positioning. The Bank will focus on building a high-quality and diversified loan portfolio, strengthening credit underwriting and recovery frameworks, sustaining deposit growth and customer acquisition, accelerating digital innovation and service delivery, driving operational efficiency and leveraging integration synergies with Access Bank PLC.
With a stronger balance sheet, improved asset quality and the backing of Access Bank, NBK is well positioned to deliver sustainable growth while supporting businesses, households and economic development in Kenya.
About National Bank of Kenya Ltd.
National Bank of Kenya is a subsidiary of Access Bank Plc and a fully-fledged Commercial Bank established to provide Kenyans access to finance. The Bank has a growing network of 77 branches & 4 agencies across the country, ATMs, Agent Banking and electronic channels of Mobile and Internet Banking. National Bank offers Corporate Banking, Business Banking, Retail Banking, and Islamic Banking, with an extensive portfolio of products and financial solutions tailored to the requirements of a broad spectrum of customer segments. For more information about National Bank, please visit www.nationalbank.co.ke.
