The Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Mr. Olayemi Cardoso, has reaffirmed the Bank’s commitment to financial inclusion, entrepreneurship support, and capacity-building for Nigerian youths to foster innovation and economic growth.
Speaking at the Youth Action event themed “The Youths Are Here” in Abuja on Friday, Cardoso, represented by CBN Deputy Governor, Economic Policy Directorate, Muhammad Sani Abdullahi, emphasized the Bank’s resolve to provide young Nigerians with the necessary financial tools to succeed.
CBN to Strengthen Youth Entrepreneurship and Innovation
Cardoso highlighted the CBN’s efforts to bridge financial access gaps, support youth-driven innovation, and ensure greater youth participation in policy formulation.
“Our policies will support youth entrepreneurship and innovation, particularly in emerging sectors such as the green economy and digital transformation,” he stated.
He reiterated that the CBN remained dedicated to building a more inclusive and sustainable economy, with a strategy focused on strengthening partnerships with civil society, international organizations, and the private sector.
According to him, these collaborations will amplify the impact of youth-led initiatives, create jobs, and drive innovation—critical components for both national and global development.
Strategic Partnerships for Economic Growth
Cardoso stressed the importance of forging strategic partnerships to empower young people and underserved communities.
“The CBN is committed to working with urgency and purpose to align our efforts with the Pact of the Future, building a Nigeria where young people can dream boldly and innovate confidently,” he said.
He assured that the Bank’s economic policies would be leveraged to create opportunities for youth entrepreneurs, innovators, and job creators.
“Initiatives such as youth-friendly credit policies and capacity-building programmes will be enhanced to equip young Nigerians with the tools they need to succeed, especially in emerging sectors like the green economy and digital transformation,” he added.
Financial Inclusion at the Core of CBN’s Mission
The CBN governor also underscored the Bank’s commitment to financial inclusion, ensuring that policies are designed to bridge financial access gaps, particularly for young people and underserved communities.
“Nigerian youths are not just the leaders of tomorrow; they are key stakeholders in shaping economic policies and transformations today,” he emphasized.
Government Reaffirms Support for Youth Development
Also speaking at the event, the Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, reaffirmed the federal government’s dedication to enhancing youth welfare in the country.
Similarly, the Vice President of the Joint Consultative Council of the CBN, Jamilu Ado, described the event as a crucial step in advancing the goals outlined in the Pact for the Future.
He noted that the summit provided an opportunity to share valuable insights, inspire greater participation, and mobilize Nigerians towards achieving ambitious economic and development targets.
