The Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Mr. Yemi Cardoso, has declared that Nigeria does not need to persuade or plead with investors to bring their money into the country, provided the government maintains strong and predictable macroeconomic policies.
Speaking at the CBN’s 2025 Executive Seminar, the apex bank chief stressed that the foundation for attracting both local and foreign investments lies in stability and transparency across all policy fronts.
“Stability is at the core of advancing Nigeria’s policy framework through inflation targeting,” Cardoso said. “A credible inflation targeting regime enhances predictability, anchors long-term investments, and encourages investors to come naturally. You don’t need to beg anyone to invest.”
Cardoso maintained that consistent economic reforms and clear communication of government policies will automatically pull capital into the country. According to him, investors value predictability above incentives or lobbying.
He explained that the central bank under his leadership is focused on restoring transparency, credibility, and discipline in monetary operations. “The era where people had to see the governor or directors for approvals is over,” he said firmly.
The CBN governor also sounded a note of caution against excessive borrowing through the “Ways and Means” window, warning that Nigeria must never return to such fiscal recklessness.
“The frightening Ways and Means to GDP ratios should never recur,” Cardoso warned. “We must protect the stability achieved over the past two and a half years. Consolidating our reforms will reinvigorate capital flows, safeguard financial markets, and strengthen investor confidence.”
He urged both public and private sector players to support ongoing reforms aimed at creating a sustainable macroeconomic environment. “Each of us must play our part to positively influence policy outcomes for the benefit of all Nigerians,” he added.
In her address, the Minister of State for Finance, Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite, commended the ongoing collaboration between the CBN and the Ministry of Finance, describing it as vital to achieving long-term economic recovery.
She announced that both institutions have jointly developed a new policy initiative — the Dis-Inflation and Growth Acceleration Strategy (DGAS) — designed to tackle inflation while driving real sector growth.
“DGAS provides a comprehensive framework to ensure non-inflationary growth and structural transformation, ensuring Nigeria remains attractive for investors,” Uzoka-Anite said.
She further noted that Nigeria’s economic challenges are largely structural, not cyclical, meaning that sustainable progress will depend on coordinated fiscal and monetary measures.
“We aim to improve Nigeria’s competitiveness through lower energy costs, faster business registration, and more efficient government engagement,” she added.
