CBN plans credit, empowerment policies for Nigerian youths

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has announced plan to roll out policies that support youth access to credit. The plan also encompasses capacity-building programmes to equip them for jobs, economic growth and innovation.

Olayemi Cardoso, governor, CBN who spoke at the Youth Action Event in Abuja on Friday pledged apex bank’s commitment to the success of Nigeria’s young people.

He also emphasised that the bank’s policies, going forward, would support youth entrepreneurship and innovation, particularly in emerging sectors like green economy and digital transformation.

“We will harness our economic policies to create opportunities for youth to thrive as entrepreneurs, innovators, and key drivers of economic development,” Cardoso assured.

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Represented by Muhammad Sani Abdullahi, CBN Deputy Governor, Economic Policy, Cardoso noted that Nigerian youths were not only the leaders of tomorrow but key stakeholders in shaping economic policies and transformations today.

The governor also assured that the CBN would continue to design and implement policies that bridge gaps in financial access, particularly for young people and underserved communities to build a sustainable future.

The apex bank would also strengthen partnerships with civil society, international organisations, and the private sector to amplify the impact of youth-led solutions, drive jobs, and promote innovation at both national and global levels, he added.

Cardoso also highlighted the importance of integrating the youths into policy formulation, stating that the CBN was committed to establishing platforms that allow them to engage meaningfully in economic decision-making.

Describing the Youth Action Event as a call to action, the governor urged participants to take concrete steps towards turning ideas into tangible outcomes. He also stressed the importance of setting measurable targets and timelines for youth-focused initiatives.

Ayodele Olawande, Minister of Youth Development affirmed the government’s commitment to youth welfare in the country.

Jamilu Ado, Vice President of the Joint Consultative Council of the CBN, said the event was as a crucial step in advancing the goals outlined in the Pact for the Future.

He said the summit provided an opportunity to share valuable insights, inspire greater participation, and mobilise Nigerians towards achieving these ambitious targets.