The Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Olayemi Cardoso, has received the Central Bank Governor of the Year Award at the prestigious Central Banking Awards ceremony held in London.
According to a statement issued by the apex bank, Cardoso received the award on Wednesday and dedicated the honour to the board, management, and staff of the CBN for their commitment to institutional reform and economic stability.
Speaking during the award presentation, Cardoso thanked Central Banking Publications and the panel of judges for the recognition. He also congratulated other institutions and individuals honoured at the event.
The CBN governor described the award as a reflection of the collective efforts of the bank’s workforce rather than a personal achievement.
“I accept this award on behalf of the board, management and staff of the Central Bank of Nigeria. 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 said.
Cardoso noted that central banks around the world have faced significant economic challenges in recent years. He added that Nigeria had also experienced economic pressures that required difficult policy decisions.
He highlighted key reforms implemented by the CBN, including measures aimed at tackling inflation, restructuring the foreign exchange market, and investing in critical digital and financial infrastructure to support long-term economic growth.
The governor also pointed to major achievements recorded during the period. These include Nigeria’s removal from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list and the successful completion of the banking sector recapitalisation exercise.
According to him, these milestones were made possible through collaboration among government agencies, financial institutions, development partners, and other stakeholders.
Cardoso said the CBN’s reform agenda has focused on restoring confidence in the financial system, strengthening institutional resilience, improving policy credibility, and creating a foundation for sustainable economic growth.
While acknowledging that more work remains to be done, he expressed confidence in the progress achieved so far and the growing optimism across the economy.
He credited the support of the Federal Government, market participants, development partners, and the resilience of Nigerians for the positive outcomes recorded.
“We receive this recognition with humility. We see it not as a destination, but as encouragement to continue the important work ahead,” Cardoso stated.
He reaffirmed the CBN’s commitment to maintaining public trust, preserving monetary and financial stability, and carrying out its mandate with integrity, professionalism, and accountability.
