The Central Bank of Nigeria has identified banking system stability, enhanced fintech regulation, inflation management, and modernisation of payments infrastructure as the core pillars of its 2026 reform agenda.

CBN Governor Mr. Olayemi Cardoso outlined these priorities in a statement on X (formerly Twitter), highlighting the apex bank’s strategic focus for the year.

The agenda underscores the apex bank’s ongoing reform-driven approach, aiming to restore confidence in the financial system, reinforce macroeconomic stability, and support sustainable economic growth.

Cardoso emphasized that reinforcing the banking system through rigorous supervision and enhanced corporate governance remains a top priority for the CBN, noting that a resilient banking sector is essential for sustaining public confidence and driving economic growth.

“As we begin 2026, our priorities are clear: we will continue to strengthen the banking system through rigorous supervision and sound governance; refine our inflation-targeting framework to deliver durable price stability; modernise the payments infrastructure to improve efficiency and inclusion; and foster responsible fintech innovation anchored on consumer protection and financial integrity,” he said.

He added that controlling inflation remains central to the CBN’s mandate, stressing that the Bank will rely on disciplined, data-driven monetary policy tools to anchor inflation expectations and stabilise the economy.

On fintechs, Cardoso said the CBN will promote responsible innovation while maintaining strong consumer protection and financial integrity, emphasizing that innovation must be balanced with effective regulation to mitigate systemic risks.

He also outlined plans to deepen strategic partnerships aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s credibility and reinforcing its position as a trusted, forward-looking central bank.

“Alongside these efforts, we will deepen strategic partnerships that reinforce Nigeria’s credibility and standing as a trusted, forward-looking central bank,” he said.

Nigeria’s financial system has faced increasing pressure in recent years from high inflation, exchange rate volatility, and rising living costs, prompting the CBN to implement aggressive monetary tightening and regulatory reforms.

Meanwhile, the rapid expansion of fintech companies has improved access to financial services but also raised concerns over consumer protection, regulatory gaps, and potential systemic risks.

Cardoso said the CBN intends to modernise Nigeria’s payments infrastructure to expand financial inclusion, cut transaction costs, and boost efficiency, especially for underserved communities.

He also announced plans to enhance the Bank’s internal capabilities using data analytics and AI-driven tools to strengthen decision-making, policy implementation, and regulatory oversight.

The CBN’s 2026 agenda signals a continued focus on financial stability rather than short-term stimulus, with measures aimed at rebuilding trust in the banking system and fostering sustainable long-term economic growth.