Emmanuel Ochayi
“Stay and Be Part of the Solution”
Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Olayemi Cardoso, has called on Nigerian youths to reconsider plans to leave the country. Speaking at the 59th Annual Bankers’ Dinner hosted by the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN) in Lagos, Cardoso emphasized that ongoing economic reforms are essential for long-term prosperity.
He assured the youth that these policies aim to create opportunities and foster economic growth.
Join our WhatsApp Channel“I want to assure you that at the Central Bank, every decision we make is for serving the best interest of the people,” Cardoso said. “And we will continue strengthening our internal capacity processes to ensure that these processes remain firmly rooted in evidence-based analysis.”
A Warning Against ‘Japa’ Despite Economic Reforms
Addressing the growing trend of “japa” — the local slang for emigration — Cardoso highlighted two critical reasons for staying in the country.
“It is not a good idea to japa at this stage,” he warned.
“Two reasons. One, those who may decide they are going to do that, they will sell and get rid of their assets. You’ll be doing it for cheap. Predators, who are outside looking for bargains, will come and take it and pocket it, put it in their pocket and wait for the turnaround and sell it away.
“Number two, you want to be part of the solution. You want to be part of the solution, and this is the time that we need all hands on deck.”
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Opportunities in Economic Reforms
Cardoso acknowledged the difficulties many Nigerians are experiencing due to the reforms but remained optimistic about their potential to attract international investment and improve domestic opportunities.
“There are opportunities in the market today, which I must say, from my experience over the past year and also for the past six months, a lot of interest from the outside in what is going on in Nigeria,” he stated.
“In taking positions in certain assets, they see the opportunity, and we, who are here, should be part of the solution for the better things which will come.”
A Collaborative Vision for the Future
Cardoso stressed that the success of the ongoing economic reforms depends on collective effort. He called for collaboration across all sectors, urging Nigerians to work together toward building an inclusive and thriving economy.
“We are building an economy where every individual, every business, and every community can thrive,” he said. “This vision will not be achieved by one institution alone. It requires all of us — banks, regulators, businesses, and citizens — to work together with steadfast resolve.”
While acknowledging the immediate challenges of the reforms, the CBN Governor reiterated their importance for tackling current economic difficulties and securing future prosperity.
The governor’s plea aligns with the broader goal of ensuring that economic reforms lead to lasting solutions, creating a nation where opportunities abound for all.
