Abstract:

This research examines bank consolidation and the provision of banking services to small [firms] customers. The research used descriptive methods of analysis in examining the short run effect of banking consolidation on banking services rendered to SMEs in Nigeria. The study concluded that banking consolidation in Nigeria had little or no short run impact on banking services rendered to the SMEs. The research recommends that in other to create confidence on the policy, government should cushion the short-term effect by providing basic necessities that will keep SMEs on track.