Posts in category: CatchUp

In a significant step towards ensuring economic growth and development in the country, the Honourable Minister of State for Finance, Dr Doris Uzoka-Anite on Friday, led a delegation of prominent Southeast business leaders on a courtesy visit to the Executive Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, to strengthen collaboration between government and the private sector investors

The Minister lauded Governor Sanwo-Olu’s leadership and the remarkable strides his administration has made in advancing the development of Lagos State. It’s always a pleasure to be in Lagos, a city that truly never sleeps, and one that continues to lead the way in innovation, enterprise, and economic growth

She stated that her visit was to first bring warm greetings and deep appreciation from the Honourable Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr Wale Edun for your outstanding leadership and for the remarkable strides your administration continues to make — not only in advancing the development of Lagos State, but also in supporting the broader national agenda for economic growth and fiscal stability in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led Administration

Stating further that the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu particularly values the strong spirit of collaboration and partnership that Lagos has consistently shown toward the Federal Government through its pragmatic governance, forward-thinking reforms, and active cooperation on key initiatives such as the Lagos Green Line Metro Rail Project, you have demonstrated that when the Federal and State Governments work together, progress is both achievable and sustainable, Uzoka-Anite said.

The Minister explained that the purpose of the visit was to comply with the Presidential directives, which instructs all the Ministers to immediately commence engagement with relevant stakeholders with a view to ensuring economic growth and development and to also inform the Governor about an initiative we are very excited about — the Government and Private Sector (GPS) Dialogue Series. The first edition of the Dialogue Series she said will hold on Saturday, November 1, 2025, at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Ikeja

The idea behind the GPS Dialogue is simple but powerful: to create a regular, open space where government officials and private sector leaders can sit together, share perspectives, and design practical solutions for the challenges and opportunities before us.

Uzoka-Anite explained further that the platform is built on trust, dialogue, and shared responsibility — where policy meets practice and where ideas are translated into concrete actions that drive inclusive growth.

Through this Dialogue, we aim to strengthen understanding between policymakers and business leaders, identify barriers to investment, and co-create strategies that will enable Nigeria’s economy to thrive in a rapidly changing global environment.

The Minister highlighted that the vision is to build a bridge — one that connects policy with practice and ambition with action.
And, Your Excellency, there is no better place to start that bridge than right here in Lagos, the commercial heartbeat of Nigeria and indeed West Africa

She expressed the Federal Government’s readiness to collaborate with Lagos State in hosting the inaugural edition. We therefore humbly seek your kind support and active participation, as well as that of your distinguished Commissioners for Finance, Economic Planning and Budget, Commerce, Industry and Cooperatives, as well as Local Government Affairs, together with other key members of your team. Your leadership and that of the Lagos State Government will go a long way in ensuring that the GPS Dialogue becomes a vibrant, impactful platform that truly reflects the partnership we want to see between government and business, the Minister stated

Dr Uzoka-Anite informed that the second purpose of the visit was to tell you more about some of the distinguished business leaders from the South East who are based here in Lagos and have graciously joined me on this visit.They are a shining example of the Nigerian entrepreneurial spirit, people who have made Lagos their home and are contributing daily to its growth. Each of them represents a generation of business leaders who believe deeply in Nigeria’s potential and in the power of partnership with government, she said

While reaffirming the Federal Government’s
unwavering commitment to empowering small and medium-sized enterprises, broadening access to finance, and strengthening partnership with the Lagos State Government on transformative business and regulatory reforms, the Minister noted, Together, we share a common vision — to build a Nigeria where enterprise is encouraged, innovation is rewarded, and prosperity is within the reach of every hardworking citizen.
As we prepare for the first edition of the GPS Dialogue, we look forward to working closely with you and your team to make it a landmark event, one that sets the tone for constructive dialogue and real partnership across the country, the Minister said.

Responding, the Executive Governor of Lagos State, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu assured that Lagos State Government will continue to partner with the Federal Government, captains of industry and indeed all relevant stakeholders with a view to improving the lives of Nigerians.

He thanked the Minister for choosing Lagos to host the maiden edition of GPS while also reaffirming his administration’s support to all Nigerias to thrive with equity, justice and honesty.

The meeting of the prominent business leaders also
requested for a closed-door session with the Governor to discuss several initiatives aimed at strengthening collaboration, development, and mutual prosperity between the Igbo community and the government. One of these initiatives is the proposed establishment of a Lagos-Igbo Consultative Council.

As the Federal, Lagos State Government, and Southeast business leaders continue to forge stronger ties, Nigerians can look forward to a brighter economic future. With collaborative efforts and a shared vision, the prospects for growth, innovation, and prosperity are limitless.

Signed
Mohammed Manga FCAI
Director, Information and Public Relations
November 1, 2025

www.finance.gov.ng

In a significant step towards deepening economic cooperation, the Honourable Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr Wale Edun, has today received in his office in Abuja, the new Indian High Commissioner to Nigeria, H.E. Abhishek Singh, alongside Skipper Seil founder Mr. Jitender Sachdeva,

Discussions focused on deepening economic cooperation, particularly in power, infrastructure, renewable energy, and technology. High Commissioner Singh highlighted India’s substantial footprint in Nigeria’s power sector, noting ongoing projects including power plants, substations, and solar grid installations executed by Indian firms such as Skipper.

He referenced India’s investment commitments of approximately $60 billion in Nigeria, affirming that delivered projects reflect India’s long-standing partnership and continued confidence in Nigeria’s economic future.

India holds the Honourable Minister in very high regard, Singh noted, commending Mr. Edun’s leadership and Nigeria’s reform momentum. He also presented a symbolic handcrafted gift and conveyed goodwill from the Government and the people of India.

In his remarks, HM Edun welcomed the High Commissioner and acknowledged India’s role as a key development and investment partner. He emphasized opportunities for expanded collaboration in renewable energy, digital infrastructure, technology transfer, and private-sector investment. Areas aligned with Nigeria’s growth priorities.

Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral ties and advancing shared economic prosperity.

Signed
Mohammed Manga FCAI
Director, Information and Public Relations
October 30, 2025

www.finance.gov.ng

The Honourable Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to disciplined fiscal reforms, transparency, and private-sector-driven growth under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

Speaking in Akure on Wednesday at the South West Stakeholders Dialogue, the Minister noted that the removal of fuel subsidies and foreign-exchange reforms have strengthened public finances, improved confidence, and redirected national resources towards citizens and productive investments.

Nigeria’s resources are now benefiting the many, not the few. Our reforms are levelling the playing field, boosting competitiveness, and enabling sustainable economic expansion, he stated.

HM Edun highlighted early gains — faster GDP growth, easing inflation, and a stabilising exchange rate — alongside key interventions including direct benefit transfers, student financing under NELFUND, and plans for a 90,000-kilometre fibre-optic network across the country to expand digital access and support innovation.

He reaffirmed that the administration remains focused on reforms that attract investment, deepen economic inclusion, and position Nigeria for long-term prosperity.

We are creating the right conditions for business to thrive and for every Nigerian to participate in the nation’s progress, the Minister said.

Signed
Mohammed Manga FCAI
Director, Information and Public Relations
October 30, 2025

www.finance.gov.ng

The Honourable Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun has reaffirmed that Nigeria’s economic transformation depends on responsible and visionary leadership capable of sustaining reforms and driving inclusive growth.

Speaking at the Oxford Global Think Tank Leadership Conference in Abuja on Tuesday, themed Better Leadership for a Better Nigeria, the Minister commended Arumah Oteh for convening a platform that invests in the next generation of leaders.

HM Edun emphasised that leadership development is vital for ensuring stability, innovation, and long-term prosperity.

Our economic future rests on leadership that listens, learns, and leads with purpose — ensuring that every reform delivers growth and opportunity, he said.

He highlighted ongoing initiatives, including digital cash transfers to 8.1 million Nigerians, targeting 15 million, and the Ward-Based Development Programme, which supports small businesses and community-level productivity across over 8,000 wards nationwide, as examples of leadership translating policy into tangible impact.

The Minister noted that the administration remains focused on macroeconomic stability, fiscal transparency, and inclusive development, underscoring that effective leadership at all levels is essential to unlocking Nigeria’s full potential.

With responsible leadership and continued reform, Nigeria is well positioned for sustainable growth that benefits citizens and strengthens private sector confidence, Mr. Edun added.

He applauded Ms. Oteh and the Oxford Global Think Tank for fostering dialogue that will shape a more resilient and prosperous Nigeria.

Signed
Mohammed Manga FCAI
Director, Information and Public Relations
October 30, 2025

www.finance.gov.ng

In its avowed determination to improve the lives of its citizens, the Federal Government has expressed its readiness to collaborate with the King Salman Foundation in order to drive socio-economic development in Nigeria.

This development follows a meeting held between the Minister of State for Finance, Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite today in her office in Abuja with the representatives from the King Salman Foundation

The discussions focused on exploring areas of collaboration that would yield tangible benefits for Nigeria’s socio-economic development, such as Human Development, promoting education, health and poverty alleviation, Agricultural Development and Food Security

The Minister emphasised the importance of collaboration in achieving the shared vision of improving the lives and livelihoods of Nigerians, particularly in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led Administration

She commended the Foundation for showing interest in partnering with Nigeria to drive projects in key sectors such as agriculture and health, with a focus on malaria eradication, malnutrition, conflict resolution between herders and farmers, and borderline sanitation.

Speaking earlier, the leader of the delegation, Dr Ali Alghamdi
assured of the Foundation’s commitment to working closely with the Ministry with a view to ensuring the realization of the policy objectives of the present administration

The King Salman Foundation, with partnerships in over 100 countries, has assured the Ministry of its commitment to working closely to realise the policy objectives of the present administration. The Foundation is one of the donors to Live and Livelihood Funds (LLF) which offers a special grant aims at supporting the member countries to execute projects with humanitarian concerns under the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB).

This historic partnership marks a significant milestone in Nigeria’s development journey, poised to improve millions of Nigerians’ lives through fruitful collaboration

Signed
Mohammed Manga FCAI
Director, Information and Public Relations
October 29, 2025

www.finance.gov.ng

By Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite, CFA

On October 24, 2025, Nigeria achieved a historic milestone that will reshape our nation’s economic future. At the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) Plenary in Paris, France, Nigeria was officially removed from the grey list – a designation that had constrained our financial system and limited opportunities for ordinary Nigerians since February 2023.

This is not just a bureaucratic achievement or a diplomatic win. This is about real change that will touch the lives of every Nigerian; from the small business owner in Lagos to the farmer in Kano, from the trader in Owerri to the student seeking opportunities abroad.

What This Means for You

Let me explain what this achievement means in practical terms. When Nigeria was on the grey list, it meant that other countries viewed our financial system with suspicion. Banks abroad were hesitant to process transactions from Nigeria. Businesses found it harder and more expensive to trade internationally. Young Nigerians faced additional scrutiny when applying for visas or opening bank accounts overseas. Foreign investors thought twice before bringing their capital to our shores.

Now, with our exit from the grey list, these barriers begin to fall. Nigerian businesses will find it easier and cheaper to conduct international trade. Our banks can engage more freely with global financial institutions. Foreign investors will view Nigeria as a safer, more credible destination for their capital. And everyday Nigerians will face less discrimination in the global financial system.

This achievement is particularly significant because we were removed alongside South Africa, Mozambique, and Burkina Faso – a proud moment for Africa as a whole. The FATF President herself called it “a positive story for the continent of Africa.”

How We Got Here

This victory belongs to every Nigerian who believed in our capacity for reform. But I must acknowledge the extraordinary leadership that made it possible.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu provided unwavering commitment to this cause from day one. His Excellency understood that Nigeria’s global credibility was at stake and gave clear directives to complete this reform, no matter how difficult. Under his leadership, we implemented bold economic reforms, from fuel subsidy removal to foreign exchange harmonization, that demonstrated Nigeria’s seriousness about building a transparent, rule-based economy.

The Honourable Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun coordinated this complex effort across multiple agencies with exceptional skill and determination. His vision was clear from the outset: “Nigeria’s ambition was never limited to simply completing the Action Plan and exiting the grey list. Our focus has been on driving reforms and strengthening institutions.” This was not just about ticking boxes; it was about genuine transformation.

I must also recognize the exemplary leadership of Hajiya Hafsat Abubakar Bakari, CEO of the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU). She coordinated the implementation of a rigorous 19-point Action Plan with remarkable precision and persistence. When we faced three outstanding action items in February 2025 with a March deadline looming, Ms. Bakari’s urgent call to action galvanized the entire government machinery. Her technical expertise and tireless advocacy were instrumental in keeping Nigeria on track. As she rightly said, this achievement was “a true test of Nigeria’s resilience, coordination, and commitment to reform.”

The Office of the National Security Adviser deserves special commendation for the exceptional coordination of all security agencies throughout this process. Their strategic oversight ensured seamless collaboration across law enforcement and intelligence agencies, which was critical to meeting our compliance obligations.

My colleagues at FEC, the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, and the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, worked relentlessly to ensure that legal frameworks and enforcement mechanisms were strengthened across the board.

The Work We Did
Over the past two and a half years, Nigeria implemented comprehensive reforms that transformed our financial system. We enacted and enforced critical legislation – the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act 2022 and the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act 2022. We operationalized a Beneficial Ownership Register that brings transparency to corporate ownership. We strengthened intelligence sharing between law enforcement agencies and enhanced supervisory measures for banks and other financial institutions.

We didn’t just pass laws on paper. We ensured they were implemented in practice. We increased prosecutions of financial crimes. We applied sanctions to institutions that failed to comply with anti-money laundering requirements. We improved detection of illegal cash movements across our borders.

As Minister of State for Finance, I had the privilege of coordinating critical aspects of this reform with regulatory agencies and the private sector. I worked closely with the Corporate Affairs Commission to operationalize the Beneficial Ownership Register, ensuring transparency in corporate ownership structures. In fact, the outcome of the BO Register has been transformative—we now have unprecedented visibility into corporate ownership structures, making it significantly harder for illicit actors to hide behind shell companies and enhancing our ability to track suspicious financial flows.

I collaborated with the National Insurance Commission to strengthen supervisory measures in the insurance sector, and partnered with Nigeria Customs Service to enhance detection and enforcement at our borders. Our work with the Securities and Exchange Commission and the Central Bank of Nigeria ensured that our financial markets met global standards for transparency and integrity. The passage of the Investment and Securities Act 2025, which I championed alongside other stakeholders, was a key component of our broader commitment to financial integrity and investor protection.

What Comes Next

Our removal from the grey list is not a finish line. It is a new starting line. As South Africa’s Revenue Service Commissioner wisely noted, this is “not a finish line but a milestone on a long-term journey toward building a robust and resilient financial ecosystem.”

We have already been invited to join the FATF Guest Jurisdictions Initiative, which means Nigeria will participate under its own flag in FATF meetings for the next year – a recognition of our growing credibility in global financial governance.

But our work continues. We must sustain these reforms and build on this momentum. We must continue strengthening our institutions, enhancing transparency, and ensuring that Nigeria’s financial system remains a force for legitimate economic growth, not illicit activity.

President Tinubu’s vision of a $1 trillion economy is now more achievable than ever. With restored global credibility, Nigeria can attract the foreign investment we need to develop our infrastructure, create jobs, and lift millions out of poverty. Our capital markets can become the engine that powers this transformation – but only if we maintain the integrity and transparency that we’ve worked so hard to establish.

A Moment of Pride

This is a moment for every Nigerian to feel proud. We have shown the world that Nigeria can reform, that we can meet international standards, and that we can deliver on our commitments. We have proven that when we work together – government, private sector, civil society, and citizens – we can achieve extraordinary things.

To President Tinubu, thank you for your visionary leadership. To Minister Wale Edun, thank you for your strategic coordination. To Hajiya Hafsat Bakari and the entire team at NFIU, thank you for your technical excellence and relentless dedication. To the National Security Adviser and all security agencies, thank you for your exemplary coordination. To the Attorney-General, the Minister of Interior, and all the agencies that contributed to this success, thank you for your service to our nation.

And to every Nigerian: this achievement is yours. It opens doors that were previously closed. It creates opportunities that were previously out of reach. It restores dignity to our nation in the global community.

We have laid the foundation. Now let us build the future we deserve – a Nigeria that is prosperous, transparent, and respected on the world stage.

Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite, CFA
Honourable Minister of State for Finance

Nigeria has been officially removed from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list, marking a major milestone in the nation’s economic reform journey and reaffirming its global commitment to transparency, integrity, and financial accountability.

The decision, announced at the FATF Plenary in Paris, follows two years of sustained reforms and collaboration across government and financial institutions. Representing Nigeria, the Honourable Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun described the achievement as a decisive signal to investors that Nigeria is open, compliant, and ready for deeper financial integration.

This development strengthens Nigeria’s standing within the global financial system, restoring international confidence and unlocking opportunities for foreign investment, trade finance, and private-sector growth.

By addressing key deficiencies in anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing frameworks, Nigeria has not only enhanced its financial governance but also reinforced the foundations for sustainable economic expansion and private-sector competitiveness.

Nigeria’s delisting represents more than regulatory compliance — it is a commitment to a transparent economy where businesses can thrive, investors can trust, and growth can accelerate.

Signed

Mohammed Manga FCAI

Director, Information and Public Relations

October 26, 2025

www.finance.gov.ng

The Honourable Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun has presided over the investiture of Dr. George Elombi as the fourth President and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the African Export–Import Bank (Afreximbank) at a ceremony held in Cairo, Egypt.

The leadership handover marks a defining moment for the continent’s financial landscape and reinforces Afreximbank’s central role in advancing Africa’s trade integration, industrialisation, and shared prosperity.

As Chairperson of the Afreximbank General Meeting, HM Edun commended the outgoing President, Professor Benedict Oramah, for his decade of transformative leadership that strengthened the Bank’s balance sheet and deepened Africa’s financial resilience. Initiatives such as the Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS) and the AfCFTA Adjustment Fund have significantly expanded opportunities for Nigerian businesses, enabling smoother regional trade, easier currency settlement, and broader access to growth capital.

In his remarks, the Honourable Minister described the leadership transition as a reaffirmation of Africa’s collective capacity to finance its development and chart its own economic destiny.

The appointment of Dr. Elombi, a long-serving executive who has been instrumental in shaping Afreximbank’s governance and capital expansion, ensures continuity of the Bank’s mission to empower the African private sector.

For Nigeria, this transition strengthens access to continental financing mechanisms, supports the government’s reform agenda, and unlocks greater export opportunities for domestic enterprises across key sectors.

Signed

Mohammed Manga FCAI

Director, Information and Public Relations

October 26, 2025

www.finance.gov.ng

The Honourable Minister of State for Finance, Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite has emphasized the importance of embracing the timeless ideals of patriotism, education, and public service to drive economic empowerment, inclusive growth, and opportunities for all Nigerians

Dr. Uzoka-Anite made the remarks today in her office in Abuja when she received the Committee for the 6th Dr Nnamdi Azikiwe Annual Award Memorial Lecture, led by its chairman and former Governor of Niger State, Dr. Mu’azu Babangida Aliyu, who paid her a courtesy

She stated that Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe’s ideals of patriotism, education, and public service remain timeless, emphasizing the need for Nigerians and leaders in particular to imbue ideals of patriotism in order to drive inclusive growth and opportunities for all Nigerians.

Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe’s ideals of patriotism, education, and public service remain timeless. It is our duty, as leaders of today, to translate those ideals into economic empowerment, inclusive growth, and opportunities for all Nigerians, she said.

The Minister stated further that Dr. Azikiwe’s legacy of patriotism, education, and public service continues to guide us. Under the Renewed Hope Agenda, we are committed to driving sound fiscal management, inclusive economic growth, and sustainable prosperity for all Nigerians. Recognitions like this strengthen our resolve to serve even more diligently.

She reiterated that the Federal Ministry of Finance remains committed to driving sound fiscal management, inclusive economic policies, and sustainable national prosperity in line with the policy thrust of the present administration

Dr Uzoka-Anite thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Executive Governor of Imo State H.E Hope Uzodinma, the Chairman Zenith Jim Ovia and indeed all Nigerians for the opportunity to serve,

and contribute to nation-building.

Stating that recognitions like this fuels the desire to serve more.

She commended the organizing committee for its continued effort to honour national icons and promote intellectual dialogue around leadership, governance, and national development.

Speaking earlier, the former Governor of Niger State, His Excellency Dr. Mu’azu Babangida Aliyu, who led the delegation, expressed his delight at the visit and underscored the importance of unity as the foundation of Nigeria’s progress.

He emphasized that the nation must remain united in purpose and vision to achieve sustainable development.

He explained that Dr.Nnamdi Azikiwe Award and honour is reserved for distinguished individuals whose contributions have advanced their communities, the nation, and humanity at large.

The former Chief Servant of Niger State noted that the nomination of Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite, the Honourable Minister of State for Finance, was both unanimous and well-deserved — citing her remarkable record in the financial sector, her integrity, and her unwavering dedication to the growth and stability of Nigeria.

He added that the visit was a precursor to the Dr Nnamdi Azikiwe Annual Memorial Lecture and Award ceremony schedule for November 2025

The visit reaffirmed collaboration towards fostering civic engagement and value-driven leadership across sectors.

The ceremony underscores the Ministry’s commitment to collaborative efforts in driving national development and promoting patriotic leadership.

Signed

Mohammed Manga FCAI

Director, Information and Public Relations

October 24, 2025

www.finance.gov.ng

The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to expanding financial inclusion in Nigeria through digital identity and pro-growth regulation.

This commitment was underscored by the Minister of State for Finance, Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite, at Semafor’s Next 3 Billion Tour held today at the Transcorp Hilton, Abuja.

The convening, produced by Semafor in partnership with the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, brought together policymakers, business leaders, innovators, and civil society to translate global research on inclusion and connectivity into country-level action.

The Abuja stop follows Semafor’s New York summit on the sidelines of the 2025 United Nations General Assembly and precedes additional tour events across Africa and the Middle East.

Speaking on a panel moderated by Semafor’s Yinka Adegoke, Dr. Uzoka-Anite highlighted the progress driven by reforms under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, including trusted digital identity systems, agent banking, and the rise of mobile money platforms. “

Trust is the foundation of inclusion. With NIN and BVN strengthening identity verification, more Nigerians can be safely onboarded into the financial system, Dr. Uzoka-Anite said.

She added that Mobile-first solutions and nationwide agent networks are lowering the barriers to access. People can transact, save, and receive payments in their communities without heavy brick-and-mortar infrastructure.

The Minister noted that platforms such as Moniepoint, OPAY, and PalmPay, alongside bank-led wallets and agency services, are accelerating daily-use cases from payments to remittances for households and small businesses. She added further that consumer credit reforms are being designed to help Nigerians not only spend but also earn and build assets over time.

When people can save securely within the financial system instead of keeping cash at home that is vulnerable to theft, fire, or flooding, they protect their income capital and strengthen long-term stability, she said. Our focus is practical and people-centered. Expand connectivity, improve affordability, raise digital literacy, and keep regulation smart so innovation can scale responsibly.

Dr. Uzoka-Anite also commended the Central Bank of Nigeria and ecosystem partners for improving settlement infrastructure and supporting the growth of agent banking nationwide. She acknowledged remaining gaps around power, connectivity, and skills. The Minister expressed her commitment to continued collaboration with relevant ministries, regulators, states, and the private sector to close them.

Change can feel gradual, but days like today show the distance we have covered. She added. Under the Renewed Hope Agenda, we will keep linking policy to the tools people actually use on their phones every day to work, trade, and save.

The Minister thanked Semafor, the Gates Foundation, and all participants for advancing a solutions-focused dialogue. The Next 3 Billion Tour is spotlighting insights from the Global Findex 2025 report and the Global Digital Connectivity Tracker to inform inclusive growth strategies in key markets.

With the government’s renewed focus on digital identity, fintech innovation, and pro-growth regulation, Nigeria is poised to accelerate financial inclusion, driving economic growth and development for all citizens.

Signed
Mohammed Manga FCAI
Director, Information and Public Relations
October 22, 2025

www.finance.gov.ng