The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has held high-level engagements with global fintech leaders on the sidelines of the 2025 International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank Annual Meetings, aimed at strengthening collaboration and driving innovation in Nigeria’s digital financial ecosystem.
Led by CBN Governor Dr. Olayemi Cardoso, the discussions focused on expanding financial inclusion, enhancing cross-border payment systems, and deepening regulatory frameworks that balance innovation with financial stability. Cardoso emphasized the need for Nigeria to align its fintech growth with global standards while addressing domestic challenges such as cybersecurity, consumer protection, and access to affordable financial services.
“The Central Bank remains committed to creating an enabling environment for fintechs to thrive,” Cardoso stated. “We recognize the critical role of technology in improving access to finance and boosting Nigeria’s competitiveness in the digital economy. However, this must be done responsibly, with proper oversight and collaboration among stakeholders.”
The CBN delegation met with executives from leading global and African fintech firms, as well as representatives from development finance institutions, to explore partnerships that would accelerate Nigeria’s digital finance strategy. Topics discussed included open banking, central bank digital currencies (CBDCs), digital lending regulations, and the role of blockchain in enhancing financial transparency.
International partners commended Nigeria’s progress in fintech adoption, noting the country’s position as Africa’s largest digital payments market. They also expressed interest in supporting initiatives that promote innovation in small business financing, remittances, and digital identity verification.
Industry analysts say the meetings reflect a proactive shift in the CBN’s engagement with the private sector, signaling its readiness to embrace new technologies while safeguarding monetary stability. The move is seen as part of Nigeria’s broader efforts to modernize its financial system and attract foreign investment in its growing digital economy.
As Nigeria continues to refine its fintech policies, the outcomes of these engagements are expected to shape future collaborations and reforms — reinforcing the country’s status as a leading hub for financial innovation in Africa.
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