This study examined the effects of credit expansion on commercial banks soundness in Nigeria. The objective was to ascertain the relationship between credit expansion and commercial banks soundness in Nigeria. Time series data was collected from Central Bank of Nigeria statistical bulletin and stock exchange factbook. Ordinary least square method was used as data analysis method. Model I had capital adequacy indicator was modeled as the function of bank credit to manufacturing sector, communication and transport, mining and quarrying, agricultural sector and credit to small and medium scale enterprises while model II modeled capital adequacy indicator as the function of credit to private sector, net domestic credits, medium term credits, short term credits and long term credits. From the findings, Model I found that the independent variables explained 77 percent variations on capital adequacy ratio. The beta coefficient found that all the independent variables have positive effects on bank capital adequacy except credit to manufacturing sector. Model II found that the independent variables can explain 81 percent variations on capital adequacy while the beta coefficient found that all the independent variables have positive effects except medium term credit. The study concludes that credit expansion significantly relates to commercial banks soundness in Nigeria. We therefore, recommended for a well-articulated credit policies that will strengthen commercial banks soundness in Nigeria.
Keywords: Commercial Banks, Credit Expansion, Multi-dimensional Analysis, Nigeria
