Access, UBA, Zenith, GTB to Close Branches Across Nigeria – What’s Going On?

If you’re planning to walk into your bank branch this Friday or next Monday, you might want to change your plans.

Some of Nigeria’s biggest banks, Access Bank, UBA, Zenith, GTBank, and several others are set to temporarily shut their physical branches across the country. But don’t panic. 

This isn’t a sign of a financial meltdown. It’s all in line with the public holiday declared by the federal government in celebration of Eid-ul-Adha.

Why are the banks closing?

The federal government has officially designated Friday, June 6, and Monday, June 9, 2025, as public holidays for Eid-ul-Adha. 

This announcement, made by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, is part of the nationwide observance of the Islamic festival, which commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim to sacrifice his son in obedience to God.

As a result, all major banks and financial institutions will halt in-person operations during this period, giving their staff time off to observe the festivities and rest.

What does this mean for customers?

While banking halls will remain shut for two days, financial services won’t stop entirely. In fact, banks are urging customers to make full use of digital channels including mobile apps, USSD codes, online banking, and ATMs to carry out their transactions.

From transfers to bill payments and airtime purchases, nearly every essential service will still be available through e-banking platforms. However, customers should brace for potential surges in traffic, which might slow down some services.

ATM Use and Hidden Charges

It’s worth noting that not all ATM withdrawals are equal. Transactions done on your own bank’s ATM are usually free. But once you cross into another bank’s ATM territory, fees begin to apply. 

A withdrawal of N20,000 from a different bank’s off-site ATM could cost you up to N600, a combination of fixed charges and possible surcharges.

The controversy surrounding these fees isn’t new. Earlier this year, SERAP (Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project) raised concerns over ATM withdrawal charges and called on the CBN to pause any further increases, especially while the matter remains in court.

What this means for Muslims

Beyond banking logistics, this short break is also a spiritual moment. The Minister of Interior used the occasion to encourage Muslims to embrace the values of faith and sacrifice, urging citizens to pray for peace and progress in Nigeria. 

He also reiterated the government’s commitment to reforms under the Renewed Hope Agenda, aiming to place the country back on a solid path.