Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
The Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Yemi Cardoso, has underscored the need for stronger economic collaboration between Nigeria and the Middle East, emphasizing the role of the Nigerian diaspora in driving financial growth.
Speaking with Saudi Arabia’s Assistant Governor for Monetary Affairs, Talal Al-Humond, on the sidelines of the Emerging Markets Economies Conference in Riyadh, Cardoso highlighted key lessons from Saudi Arabia’s infrastructure and tourism development. He praised the Kingdom’s economic diversification strategies, which have transformed its financial landscape and positioned it as a global investment hub.
Cardoso reaffirmed the CBN’s commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s financial sector through enhanced remittance flows and macroeconomic policies that foster private sector growth. He stressed the importance of leveraging diaspora contributions to boost foreign exchange reserves and drive sustainable economic development.
With Nigeria facing economic challenges, the CBN Governor reiterated plans to solidify macroeconomic fundamentals, support job creation, and promote investment-friendly policies. His discussions with Saudi officials signal a renewed push for deeper financial cooperation, trade expansion, and knowledge exchange between both nations.
As Nigeria looks to attract foreign investment and diversify its economy, Cardoso’s engagement with Saudi Arabia presents a strategic step toward forging long-term partnerships in finance, infrastructure, and tourism.