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NBK Profit Jumps 275% in Strong Q1 2026 Performance
National Bank of Kenya has reported a sharp rise in profitability for the first quarter of 2026, signaling improved operational efficiency, stronger asset quality and renewed business momentum.
The bank posted a profit after tax of KSh1.03 billion for the period ending March 31, 2026, representing a 275 percent increase from KSh275.7 million recorded during the same period last year.
The strong performance was largely driven by higher net interest income and a major decline in credit impairment charges.
Interest Income and Lending Drive Growth
NBK’s net interest income rose to KSh2.84 billion from KSh2.4 billion in Q1 2025.
The bank attributed the growth to disciplined asset pricing and improved funding efficiency.
Meanwhile, non-interest income remained stable at KSh664.3 million, supported by steady performance in fees and commissions despite a competitive banking environment.
Additionally, operating expenses were maintained at KSh2.1 billion as the lender continued implementing cost management and operational efficiency measures.
NBK Profit Jumps 275% in Strong Q1 2026 Performance
Improved Asset Quality Boosts Earnings
A major contributor to the improved results was the sharp decline in loan loss provisions.
Credit impairment charges dropped by 92 percent to KSh50 million compared to KSh618 million recorded during the same period last year.
The bank linked the improvement to lower non-performing loans, stronger recoveries and enhanced credit quality.
NBK also strengthened its balance sheet during the quarter.
Total assets increased to KSh145.3 billion from KSh141.1 billion recorded in December 2025.
Customer deposits stood at KSh106.7 billion, reflecting continued customer confidence and providing a stable funding base for growth.
At the same time, net loans and advances rose to KSh57 billion from KSh51 billion in December 2025, highlighting continued lending support to businesses and customers across key sectors of the economy.
Focus on Reinvention and Growth
Speaking on the results, George Odhiambo said the bank had started the year on a strong footing driven by customer confidence and internal efficiency initiatives.
“We have started off the year on a strong footing, driven by customer confidence, cost management and operational efficiency initiatives. We are reinventing ourselves in the market to come out stronger,” he said.
He added that the bank would continue focusing on customer service, business expansion and improving its products and services.
Digital Growth and Future Outlook
Looking ahead, NBK says it remains focused on sustainable growth, strengthening digital banking capabilities and maintaining disciplined risk management.
The bank also expects ongoing integration processes within Access Bank PLC to support future expansion and operational improvement.
Ultimately, the strong Q1 performance signals NBK’s continued recovery and growing ambition to strengthen its position within Kenya’s banking sector.
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