Transition to Digital During Yuletide, Financial Institutions Counseled
Customers of banks and other financial service providers across Nigeria have been urged to plan ahead and rely on electronic banking platforms following the closure of physical branches for the Christmas holidays.
The advisory follows the Federal Government’s declaration of Thursday, December 25, and Friday, December 26, 2025, as public holidays to mark Christmas Day and Boxing Day.
The government also announced Thursday, January 1, 2026, as a public holiday for the New Year celebration.
Ahead of the holidays, several banks informed customers that operations would be scaled down on Wednesday, December 24, 2025, before a complete shutdown on December 25 and 26.
Many institutions stressed that while branches would be inaccessible, digital services would remain available.
Stanbic IBTC, in a notice shared on its social media platforms, stated, “Please note that our branches will be closed from Thursday, 25, to Friday, 26 December 2025, in observance of the holidays.
“But not to worry, our digital channels are always open to serve you anytime, anywhere.”
FirstBank also announced early closure of its branches, informing customers via email that, “Please be informed that all our branches will close for business at 1:00 pm on Wednesday, 24 December 2025, and Wednesday, 31 December 2025.
Banking operations will resume on Monday, 29 December 2025, and Friday, 2 January 2026, respectively.”
The bank added, “Kindly accept our sincere apologies for any inconvenience this may cause. Please be assured that you can still bank with us through our alternative channels,” listing options such as its mobile app, LIT app, wallet, USSD services, ATMs and online banking platforms.
The holiday closure extends beyond commercial banks, as capital market operators also announced adjustments to their schedules.
Coronation Registrars notified clients, saying, “Dear Esteemed Client, The Federal Government has declared Thursday, 25 December, and Friday, 26 December 2025, as public holidays to commemorate this year’s Christmas celebration.
“On these days, our branches will be closed for physical visits. Regular operations will resume on Monday, 29 December 2025.”
The firm added that its contact centre would be accessible between 9:00 am and 12:00 pm during the period.
Similarly, Cowry Assets Management disclosed via email that, “As part of our Christmas celebration, please be informed that our offices will close early by 2pm on Wednesday, 24 December 2025, and remain closed on Thursday, 25 December, and Friday, 26 December 2025 (Boxing Day). Normal business operations will resume on Monday, 29 December 2025.”
Pension fund administrators are also observing the holiday break. Leadway Pensure announced, “This is to notify you that our offices and branches will be closed on Wednesday, 24 December 2025, at 2 PM and will be closed for the entire day on Thursday, 25 December 2025, and Friday, 26 December 2025, for the Christmas Holiday.
Normal operations will commence on Monday, 29 December 2025.”
The firm assured customers that services would continue through digital options, including “LISA (Leadway Pensure Instant Service Assistant),” alongside its chatbot, online platform and mobile app.
With multiple institutions temporarily shutting their doors, industry players are encouraging customers to complete urgent transactions early and make use of electronic banking and customer support channels throughout the festive period.
