CBN Governor Cardoso Hosts British Investors to Boost Financial Sector Reforms
The Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Mr. Olayemi Cardoso, on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, welcomed a high-profile delegation from British International Investment (BII), led by its Chair, Ms. Diana Layfield. The meeting, which also included the British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Mr. Richard Montgomery, aimed to strengthen financial sector reforms and attract long-term investment into the country’s banking and financial services industry.
During the discussions, Governor Cardoso emphasized the CBN’s commitment to maintaining macroeconomic stability, implementing credible monetary policy, and ensuring a transparent, data-driven regulatory framework. “Our goal is to build a resilient banking system that supports financial inclusion and sustainable growth,” he said, highlighting ongoing efforts to improve financial intermediation across the economy.
The meeting explored key developments in Nigeria’s financial services sector and BII’s investment outlook. Both parties discussed opportunities for deploying patient capital to support banking sector stability and inclusive private-sector growth. Governor Cardoso noted that development finance institutions providing long-term capital, coupled with strong governance, remain vital partners in Nigeria’s financial reform agenda.
Ms. Layfield reaffirmed BII’s strong interest in Nigeria, emphasizing the need for regulatory clarity and ongoing engagement to foster investment and inclusive growth. The delegation, including senior executives such as CEO Leslie Maarsdorp and Managing Director for Africa Chris Chijiutomi, engaged with CBN officials to identify areas where collaboration could further strengthen Nigeria’s financial sector.
British International Investment, wholly owned by the UK Government through the Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office (FCDO), manages £9.9 billion in assets and supports over 1,600 businesses across emerging markets. The visit underscores the UK’s continued commitment to partnering with Nigeria in building a stable, resilient, and investment-friendly financial ecosystem.
source: The sun