Background of the Study
Corporate governance has emerged as a vital component in ensuring the stability, efficiency, and profitability of financial institutions. Strong corporate governance practices are linked to better risk management, improved stakeholder confidence, and enhanced financial performance (OECD, 2024). In the Nigerian banking sector, the need for robust corporate governance became evident following the banking crisis of the late 2000s, which exposed weaknesses in management practices and regulatory compliance.
Access Bank, one of Nigeria’s leading financial institutions, has been at the forefront of implementing corporate governance frameworks aimed at enhancing transparency, accountability, and stakeholder engagement. The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has also mandated governance reforms, such as the composition of boards, disclosure requirements, and risk management standards, to ensure financial stability (CBN, 2025). However, the link between these reforms and the financial performance of banks remains an area of interest.
This study focuses on examining the impact of corporate governance practices on the financial performance of Access Bank. It seeks to provide insights into how governance structures influence profitability, operational efficiency, and shareholder value.
Statement of the Problem
Despite significant advancements in corporate governance frameworks, the Nigerian banking sector continues to face challenges related to poor governance, such as insider abuse, weak risk management, and insufficient board oversight. Access Bank has made commendable efforts to strengthen its governance structures, yet the direct impact of these measures on financial performance remains unclear.
Several studies have explored corporate governance in Nigeria, but there is a lack of focused research on how these practices influence financial outcomes in specific banks. Addressing this gap is critical, as effective governance is essential for sustaining growth and minimizing systemic risks in the banking industry.
Objectives of the Study
Research Questions
Research Hypotheses
Scope and Limitations of the Study
The study focuses on Access Bank and examines corporate governance practices and their impact on financial performance from 2020 to 2025. Limitations include reliance on secondary data and potential biases in interpreting governance outcomes.
Definitions of Terms
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INTRODUCTION
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