A Bridge Facility Agreement is commonly used when a borrower requires immediate funding but permanent financing arrangements are not yet in place or require more time to complete. This document type is particularly relevant in the Nigerian market where complex transactions may require extended periods to arrange long-term financing due to regulatory approvals or market conditions. The agreement structures a short-term loan facility, typically ranging from a few months to a year, and includes provisions for refinancing or repayment through permanent financing arrangements. The document must comply with Nigerian banking regulations, including BOFIA 2020 and CBN directives, particularly regarding interest rates, security registration, and foreign exchange requirements. Bridge facilities are often used in acquisition financing, project development, or corporate restructuring situations where timing is critical but permanent financing solutions require additional time to implement.

1. Parties: Identification of the lender(s) and borrower(s), including registration details and addresses

2. Background: Context of the bridge facility, including purpose and relationship to any permanent financing

3. Definitions and Interpretation: Key terms used throughout the agreement and rules of interpretation

4. The Facility: Details of the bridge facility amount, purpose, and availability period

5. Conditions Precedent: Prerequisites that must be satisfied before drawdown

6. Drawdown: Procedures and requirements for utilizing the facility

7. Interest: Interest rate, calculation methods, and payment provisions

8. Repayment and Prepayment: Terms for repayment, including mandatory and voluntary prepayment provisions

9. Tax Gross Up and Indemnities: Provisions dealing with tax implications and related indemnities

10. Increased Costs: Provisions for dealing with changes in costs due to regulatory or legal changes

11. Representations and Warranties: Statements of fact and assurances given by the borrower

12. Information Undertakings: Borrower's obligations to provide financial and other information

13. General Undertakings: Borrower's operational and financial covenants

14. Events of Default: Circumstances that allow the lender to cancel the facility and demand repayment

15. Changes to Parties: Provisions regarding assignment and transfer rights

16. Administration: Administrative provisions including notices and calculations

17. Governing Law and Enforcement: Choice of law and jurisdiction provisions