By Oluwakemi Kindness
Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Olayemi Cardoso, has reaffirmed the apex bank’s commitment to sustaining monetary and financial sector reforms aimed at restoring economic confidence, strengthening institutional credibility, and driving long-term growth.
Cardoso made the pledge while receiving the prestigious Central Bank of the Year Award at the Central Banking Awards ceremony in London, a recognition of the CBN’s recent policy reforms and interventions.
The CBN Governor described the award as a testament to the collective efforts of the Bank’s Board, management, and staff in advancing reforms designed to stabilise the economy and rebuild public trust.
“I accept this award on behalf of the Board, Management and staff of the Central Bank of Nigeria,” Cardoso said, noting that the recognition belongs to the professionals whose dedication and expertise continue to strengthen the institution.
Highlighting the challenges confronting central banks globally, Cardoso said Nigeria’s economic environment had required difficult but necessary policy decisions to address macroeconomic imbalances, curb inflationary pressures, and improve the efficiency of the foreign exchange market.
According to him, the Bank also prioritised investments in digital and financial infrastructure to enhance financial system resilience and support economic activity.
Cardoso pointed to key achievements recorded under the reform agenda, including Nigeria’s removal from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list and progress in the banking sector recapitalisation programme.
He attributed the successes to collaboration among government agencies, regulators, financial institutions, and other stakeholders working to strengthen the nation’s economy.
The CBN Governor said the reforms are guided by a clear objective of restoring confidence, reinforcing policy credibility, and building institutions capable of supporting sustainable economic development.
While acknowledging that challenges remain, he expressed optimism about the progress achieved and the growing confidence among investors and economic stakeholders.
Cardoso also credited the Federal Government, development partners, market operators, and Nigerians for supporting the reform process.
“We receive this recognition with humility. We see it not as a destination, but as encouragement to continue the important work ahead,” he said.
He reaffirmed the Bank’s commitment to safeguarding monetary and financial stability while maintaining the highest standards of professionalism, accountability, and integrity.
The international recognition comes at a critical time as Nigeria continues to implement economic and financial sector reforms aimed at strengthening macroeconomic stability and supporting long-term growth.
