Last year was a particularly tough year for the bank and net profit growth fell by 44%. Return on equity also fell, from 36% in 2006 to 22.4% in 2007. Ecobank Niger, however, continues to grow its asset base in one of the world’s most impoverished regions. Assets grew by 32% in 2007, while the bank increased its Tier 1 capital by 8%.
The bank built seven branches in 2007, increasing its network to 13 branches across Niger. It has also been a pioneer in the field of ATMs, point-of-sale machines and card services, which it offers across the country. It also introduced the Ecobank Xpress branch concept in 2007, which allowed the bank to penetrate further into the country’s interior. Ecobank Niger sees itself as a socially responsible bank and has contributed funds towards helping develop Niger’s educational system, health service, and has given money in the field of sport.
