Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Olayemi Cardoso, has formally received the prestigious Central Bank of the Year Award, dedicating the recognition to the Board, management and staff of the apex bank for their role in driving reforms and maintaining economic stability.
Cardoso received the award during the Central Banking Awards ceremony held in London on Wednesday, where he described the honour as a reflection of the collective efforts of the institution rather than a personal achievement.In his acceptance speech, the CBN Governor thanked the organisers, Central Banking Publications, and the award judges for the recognition.
He also congratulated other institutions and individuals honoured at the event.
“I accept this award on behalf of the Board, Management and staff of the Central Bank of Nigeria,” Cardoso said.
“Above all, it belongs to the many dedicated professionals who serve our institution with integrity, expertise, and an unwavering commitment to the public good.”
He noted that the recognition came at a time when central banks across the world have been grappling with economic uncertainties and policy challenges, with Nigeria facing its own share of pressures in recent years.
According to him, the CBN had undertaken several difficult but necessary measures to address inflationary pressures, reform the foreign exchange market and strengthen critical digital and financial infrastructure needed to support long-term economic growth.
Cardoso highlighted some of the milestones achieved under the bank’s reform agenda, including Nigeria’s removal from the grey list of the Financial Action Task Force and the successful completion of the banking sector recapitalisation exercise.
He said the achievements were the result of collaborative efforts involving government agencies, financial institutions and other stakeholders.
The governor explained that the CBN’s reform programme has focused on restoring confidence in the financial system, strengthening institutional resilience, enhancing policy credibility and laying a solid foundation for sustainable economic development.
While acknowledging that more work remains to be done, Cardoso expressed confidence that the reforms were beginning to yield positive results, citing renewed optimism among investors and other economic actors.
He attributed the progress to the support of the Federal Government, development partners, market participants and the resilience of Nigerians.
“We receive this recognition with humility. We see it not as a destination, but as encouragement to continue the important work ahead,” he said.
Cardoso reaffirmed the apex bank’s commitment to safeguarding monetary and financial stability while carrying out its mandate with professionalism, accountability and integrity.
The award marks a significant international recognition for the Central Bank of Nigeria as the institution continues to implement monetary and financial sector reforms aimed at supporting the country’s economic recovery and long-term growth.
