The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has identified five key priorities that it believes should guide the next phase of fintech development in the country to ensure sustainable growth and strengthen financial inclusion.

The position was presented by the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Mr. Yemi Cardoso, in a goodwill message delivered during the 3rd Business Journal Fintech & Financial Inclusion Roundtable 2026 held in Lagos.

Represented by Dr. Rakiya Yusuf, Director of Payments System Supervision, Cardoso said Nigeria’s fintech ecosystem must evolve to provide digital financial services that are reliable, secure, fair and accessible to every user.

He stressed that Nigerians should be able to carry out financial transactions confidently, including during periods of peak demand.

“Charges should be clear, complaints resolved promptly and failed transactions addressed without unnecessary hardship to customers, Cybersecurity and fraud prevention must remain a shared responsibility, institutions must continually invest in secure technology, effective controls and practical customer education.”

Also speaking at the event, Mr. Babatunde Ajiboye, Assistant Director at the CBN, who represented Yusuf, highlighted another strategic priority for the industry.

“competition must also remain open and fair, with qualified participants having equal access to essential payment infrastructure.”

According to the apex bank, achieving these objectives will require collaboration across the financial services ecosystem. It noted that banks, fintech companies, mobile money operators, payment switches, processors, telecommunications companies, consumer groups and government institutions all have critical roles to play in delivering the desired outcomes.

Looking ahead, the CBN expressed optimism about the future of Nigeria’s digital financial landscape.

“The future of Nigeria’s digital financial ecosystem is promising. Our population is young, entrepreneurial and increasingly connected. Our financial institutions have demonstrated a strong capacity for innovation. With appropriate regulation, responsible conduct and sustained investment, Nigeria can build a digital financial system that serves as a model for Africa and the wider world.”

Cardoso reaffirmed the central bank’s commitment to supporting innovation that addresses real challenges, expands financial access and contributes to economic development.

“We will also continue to act where market conduct, concentration, weak governance or operational risks threaten customers or the stability of the system. Our message is simple: innovation welcome, fair competition is essential and public trust must remain at the centre of everything we do.”

The CBN governor also commended the Business Journal Media Group for hosting the roundtable, urging participants to engage constructively and develop practical recommendations that will help build a safer, fairer and more inclusive digital financial ecosystem across Nigeria.

Source: Enviro News Nigeria