The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has reiterated its dedication to enhancing national productivity, deepening financial inclusion, and maintaining monetary and price stability as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s economic foundation.
At the 2025 CBN Fair held at the International Convention Centre in Awka, Anambra State monitored by Fintechinsights, the Bank engaged residents on financial literacy, encouraged the use of modern payment channels, and urged Nigerians to protect the integrity of the national currency.
In her opening remarks, Hakama Sidi Ali, Acting Director of the Corporate Communications Department, said the fair provides a platform for the public to better understand CBN policies designed to support sustainable economic growth.
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This year’s theme, “Driving Alternative Payment Channels as Tools for Financial Inclusion, Growth and Accelerated Economic Development,” highlights the importance of digital payments and technology-driven financial systems in achieving macroeconomic stability.
Ali noted improvements in critical economic indicators, including declining inflation, rising foreign reserves, and a more stable foreign exchange market.
“The Naira continues to strengthen, with the gap between the official and Bureau de Change rates narrowing to below two percent. Foreign reserves now exceed $43 billion, offering more than 11 months of import cover due to sustained inflows and renewed investor confidence,” she said.
She listed key reforms implemented over the past two years such as exchange rate unification, bank recapitalisation, non-resident BVN for Nigerians abroad, the BMatch FX trading system, and the Nigeria Payments System Vision 2028—as major steps toward strengthening the economy and promoting inclusive growth.
The CBN also maintained a 75% Cash Reserve Ratio on non-TSA public-sector deposits to improve liquidity management and reduce inflationary pressures.
Ali urged Nigerians to depend solely on authentic CBN communication channels and refrain from any act that damages the Naira, calling the currency an essential national symbol.
Public Engagement and Feedback
Welcoming participants, Akobundu Onwuchekwa, Branch Controller of the CBN Awka Branch, praised the Corporate Communications Department for its continuous outreach efforts that promote financial inclusion and educate the public on evolving financial systems.
He highlighted that insights gathered from the fair would help the CBN improve both service delivery and policy execution.
“This event offers the Bank an opportunity to engage directly with stakeholders while sensitising the public on its initiatives,” he said.
Onwuchekwa reaffirmed the branch’s commitment to advancing the Bank’s mandate and supporting the economic aspirations of Anambra State through financial education and stakeholder collaboration.
Broad Participation
The event attracted participants from government agencies, security institutions, commercial banks, microfinance banks, ministries and departments, the National Youth Service Corps, the All Farmers Association of Nigeria, market associations, and other stakeholder groups.
Attendees participated in interactive sessions covering financial literacy, currency preservation, and various aspects of the CBN’s reform agenda, with officials addressing questions and providing clarifications.
The 2025 CBN Fair continues the Bank’s nationwide effort to strengthen public engagement, promote alternative payment systems, and build a more financially inclusive economy.
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