Business Loan Contract Template for Nigeria

The Business Loan Contract serves as a fundamental legal instrument in Nigerian commercial financing, used when businesses seek formal funding from financial institutions. This document is essential for compliance with Nigerian banking regulations, particularly the Banks and Other Financial Institutions Act (BOFIA) 2020 and Central Bank of Nigeria directives. It structures the lending relationship by defining loan terms, security requirements, borrower obligations, and lender rights. The agreement is crucial for businesses seeking capital for expansion, working capital, asset acquisition, or project financing, while providing lenders with legally enforceable rights and remedies under Nigerian law. It includes provisions for interest calculations, repayment schedules, events of default, and security arrangements, all tailored to meet local regulatory requirements and market practices.

1. Parties: Identification of the lender and borrower with full legal names, registration details, and addresses

2. Background: Context of the loan agreement, including purpose of the loan and any relevant business relationship between parties

3. Definitions: Detailed definitions of terms used throughout the agreement to ensure clarity and prevent ambiguity

4. Loan Amount and Purpose: Specification of the loan amount, currency, and permitted use of funds

5. Interest Rate and Calculations: Details of interest rate, calculation method, and payment frequency in compliance with CBN guidelines

6. Repayment Terms: Repayment schedule, installment amounts, and payment methods

7. Conditions Precedent: Prerequisites that must be satisfied before the loan becomes available

8. Representations and Warranties: Statements of fact and assurances given by the borrower regarding their business and ability to repay

9. Covenants: Positive and negative obligations of the borrower during the loan term

10. Events of Default: Circumstances that constitute default and trigger remedies for the lender

11. Security: Details of collateral or other security arrangements securing the loan

12. Fees and Expenses: All fees, charges, and costs associated with the loan

13. Notices: Process and requirements for formal communications between parties

14. Governing Law and Jurisdiction: Specification of Nigerian law as governing law and jurisdiction for disputes

15. Execution: Signature blocks and execution requirements