Cardoso to fintechs: CBN will back innovation under prudent oversight
Olayemi Cardoso, Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), has assured leaders of the nation’s financial technology (fintech) sector that the apex bank will continue to support innovation while maintaining robust regulatory oversight.
Speaking on the sidelines of the 2025 Annual Meetings of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank in Washington, D.C., Cardoso reaffirmed the CBN’s commitment to fostering a thriving fintech ecosystem that balances innovation with financial stability and integrity.
The strategic session, themed “Shaping the Future of Fintech in Nigeria: Innovation, Inclusion, and Integrity,” brought together fintech founders, investors, regulators, and policy leaders for a closed-door discussion on the future of digital finance and regulatory frameworks in Nigeria.
According to a CBN statement, the meeting served as a platform for open dialogue, allowing fintech stakeholders to provide feedback that will inform policy development. Cardoso emphasized that the apex bank aims to create an environment where innovative ideas can flourish without compromising the trust and integrity of the financial system.
“At the CBN, we are committed to creating an environment where new ideas can thrive under prudent oversight, and where inclusion is at the heart of our endeavors,” Cardoso said. “As we embrace new technology, it is our responsibility to maintain strong governance, protect consumers, and manage risks so that public confidence in our institutions remains strong.”
The meeting concluded with a joint commitment by the CBN and fintech leaders to continue ongoing engagement, ensuring that regulatory reforms align with Nigeria’s broader financial innovation objectives.
