Nigeria is stepping boldly onto the global stage, showcasing reforms aimed at winning back long-term investors. At the US–Nigeria Executive Business Roundtable in Washington, DC, Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor Olayemi Cardoso outlined how Nigeria is moving from policy ambiguity to predictability and transparency. His message was clear: Nigeria is committed to creating a rules-based, investor-friendly economy that prioritizes long-term stability over short-term fixes.
The Washington engagement was more than a typical roadshow—it was a deliberate signal that Nigeria understands the demands of global capital. Cardoso emphasized the central role of disciplined reforms, including foreign exchange market liberalization, a return to orthodox monetary policy, and modernization of the payments system. These initiatives are designed to improve transparency, anchor investor expectations, and strengthen Nigeria’s financial infrastructure.
The impact of Nigeria’s reform agenda is already visible in international markets. The country successfully issued $2.25 billion in a dual-tranche Eurobond, drawing orders exceeding $13 billion from investors across Europe, North America, and Asia. Analysts and institutions alike noted the oversubscription as a strong endorsement of Nigeria’s macroeconomic management and commitment to long-term reform. These developments have also stabilized the naira and boosted foreign reserves to a seven-year high.
Alongside global outreach, the CBN has reinforced domestic engagement. The Monetary Policy Forum 2025 focused on disinflation, price stability, and a gradual transition to an inflation-targeting framework. Cardoso reiterated that policy decisions are adaptive yet disciplined, aimed at restoring purchasing power and strengthening confidence in both the banking sector and broader economy. New minimum capital requirements for banks further ensure financial resilience.
Nigeria’s economic story is being rewritten around credibility, discipline, and long-term thinking. International investors are responding positively, drawn by consistent reforms and clearer policy frameworks. With ongoing initiatives in infrastructure, energy, technology, and agriculture, the CBN’s global and domestic efforts signal a commitment to sustainable growth. The challenge ahead is maintaining this credibility consistently, as global investors now closely monitor policy reliability and economic stability.
source: The Sun
