Mergers and Acquisitions as a Growth Strategy in Business Organizations: A Study of Nigeria Banking Sector

Abstract

This study examined mergers and acquisitions as growth strategy in business organizations: a study Nigeria banking sector. Three banks were used for the study. Secondary data were collected from the firms for ten years period, 2007- 2016. Bank size, gross earnings and turnover were proxies for mergers and acquisitions. Profit after Tax was the proxy for the growth. Data were analyzed using multiple regression analysis. Results indicate that mergers and acquisitions has positive and significant effect on banks’ growth.  The study recommends that Mergers and Acquisition  should not be done out of desperation or necessity as was the case during the consolidation period but should be properly evaluated and carried out to ensure its success. The pros and cons should be weighed and it should be determined if that is the best option for the organization. Banks should be innovative in the development and marketing of their products in order to increase their market share and performance and also enhance the competitiveness of the banking industry. A strategically integrated acquisition programme should be put in place to ensure a successful merger/acquisition.

Keywords: Mergers, Acquisitions, Growth Strategy, Bank Size, Profit after Tax