The Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Olayemi Cardoso, has restated the apex bank’s resolve to strengthen the nation’s financial system, sustain macroeconomic stability, and position Nigeria as a leading investment destination.
Speaking at the European Business Chamber (Eurocham Nigeria) C-Level Forum in Lagos on Saturday, September 6, 2025, Cardoso said the ongoing bank recapitalisation exercise is progressing well and will produce stronger institutions capable of financing growth and withstanding shocks.
He noted that CBN reforms, alongside the stabilisation of the naira, have renewed investor confidence, even as inflation—though still elevated—is trending downward due to sustained policy measures.
“We will protect the stability that has been re-established in the financial system with the utmost zeal,” Cardoso said. “Our priority is to maintain that stability while tackling inflation and ensuring banks are resilient enough to support corporate lending and investment.”
Addressing concerns about high lending rates, the CBN governor explained that rates would ease as inflation declines and markets allocate capital more efficiently, paving the way for stronger lending and higher investment.
Cardoso stressed that the recapitalisation directive, which requires banks to raise their minimum capital, is designed to fortify the system and expand its capacity to finance diverse economic activities. He also highlighted ongoing efforts to promote financial inclusion, strengthen the fintech ecosystem, and deploy technology-driven solutions to combat poverty.
He welcomed closer collaboration with fiscal authorities, including the Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Trade and Industry, and the Budget Office, describing it as essential for sustaining reforms and long-term stability.
On Nigeria’s global standing, Cardoso underscored the urgency of domestic reforms amid shifting geopolitical dynamics, noting that the country’s size and strategic position in West Africa make stability at home indispensable.
Eurocham Nigeria President Yann Gilbert praised the forum as a platform for dialogue between European businesses and Nigerian policymakers, reaffirming members’ commitment to invest, create jobs, and build lasting partnerships in the country.
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