The Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Yemi Cardoso, has urged Nigerians to reconsider leaving the country due to economic difficulties, emphasizing the importance of collective effort in addressing the nation’s challenges.
Speaking at the 59th Annual Bankers Dinner organized by the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN) in Lagos, Cardoso appealed to citizens to stay and contribute to rebuilding the economy. He acknowledged the current economic hardships but reassured Nigerians that the government’s policies are aimed at creating a sustainable environment where businesses and individuals can thrive.
“It is not a good idea to japa [leave the country] at this stage,” he said. Cardoso outlined two key reasons for his appeal:
“First, those who choose to leave will often sell their assets hastily and for far less than they are worth. Predators seeking bargains will take advantage of this, pocket the assets, and wait for the economic turnaround to profit immensely from them.
“Second, it’s essential to be part of the solution. This is a time when all hands must be on deck to help stabilize and rebuild our nation.”
While acknowledging the strain placed on Nigerians by ongoing economic reforms, Cardoso maintained that these measures are designed to address immediate challenges while paving the way for long-term opportunities. He stated that the ultimate goal is to create an economy where every individual has a chance to prosper.
“The reforms we’re implementing are not just about solving today’s problems but also about securing the opportunities of tomorrow. The aim is to build a resilient and inclusive economy that benefits all Nigerians,” he added.
Cardoso’s comments come amid increasing public dissatisfaction with rising inflation, unemployment, and the high cost of living. Despite these challenges, he urged Nigerians to remain hopeful and to work together to turn the nation’s fortunes around, emphasizing that collaborative efforts would be instrumental in achieving sustainable growth.
The CBN Governor’s speech reflects the government’s appeal for unity and perseverance during a period of significant economic transition, as policies are being implemented to stabilize the economy and ensure long-term prosperity.
