The Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Mr. Olayemi Cardoso, has received and dedicated the Central Bank of the Year Award to the Board, management and staff of the apex bank.

He described the recognition as a reflection of the collective efforts that have driven the institution’s reform agenda and strengthened confidence in Nigeria’s economy.

Cardoso received the award at the Central Banking Awards ceremony held in London on Wednesday, June 10, 2026.

Speaking at the event, the CBN Governor expressed gratitude to the organisers, Central Banking Publications, and the award judges for the recognition.

He also congratulated other institutions and individuals who received honours at the ceremony.

The international recognition comes at a period when the Central Bank’s monetary and financial sector reforms remain central to Nigeria’s efforts to stabilise the economy, attract investment and support long-term economic growth.

Cardoso said the award was not a personal accomplishment but one earned through the hard work and dedication of the many professionals within the Central Bank of Nigeria.

“I accept this award on behalf of the Board, Management and staff of the Central Bank of Nigeria,” he said. “Above all, it belongs to the many dedicated professionals who serve our institution with integrity, expertise, and an unwavering commitment to the public good.”

The CBN Governor noted that central banks around the world have faced difficult economic conditions in recent years, adding that Nigeria has also had to confront significant economic challenges that required decisive policy actions.

According to him, the Central Bank embarked on several reforms aimed at tackling persistent inflationary pressures, improving the foreign exchange market and investing in critical digital and financial infrastructure needed to support long-term economic growth.

Cardoso said the reforms were designed to restore confidence in the financial system, improve policy credibility and strengthen the resilience of key institutions within the economy.

He pointed to some major achievements recorded during the period, including Nigeria’s removal from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list and the successful completion of the banking sector recapitalisation exercise.

The Governor explained that these achievements were the result of collaboration among government agencies, financial institutions, development partners and other stakeholders.

He said the reform programme pursued by the apex bank has remained focused on building a stronger foundation for sustainable economic growth while improving confidence among investors and market participants.

While acknowledging that challenges remain, Cardoso expressed satisfaction with the progress made so far and said signs of renewed confidence were beginning to emerge across different sectors of the economy.

He attributed the progress to the support received from the Federal Government, development partners, financial market participants and Nigerians who continued to show resilience despite economic difficulties.

“We receive this recognition with humility,” Cardoso said. “We see it not as a destination, but as encouragement to continue the important work ahead.”

The CBN Governor stated that the Bank would continue to focus on preserving public trust, maintaining monetary and financial stability and carrying out its responsibilities with professionalism, integrity and accountability.