The Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Mr. Olayemi Cardoso, has issued a passionate call to Nigerians, urging them to stay and contribute to the nation’s economic revival rather than joining the mass exodus, popularly known as “japa.” Speaking at the prestigious 59th Annual Bankers’ Dinner organized by the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN) in Lagos, Cardoso assured that the country is on the verge of building an economy where every citizen and business can thrive.
“It is not a good idea to japa at this stage,” Cardoso declared, emphasizing that leaving the country now could lead to regrettable consequences.
Cardoso warned that those selling off their assets to migrate abroad are inadvertently undervaluing their wealth. “You’ll be doing it for cheap,” he cautioned, adding that foreign predators are eagerly taking advantage of such bargains, only to profit when Nigeria’s economy bounces back.
The CBN Governor passionately appealed to Nigerians to stay and become part of the solution to the country’s challenges. “This is the time we need all hands on deck. There are opportunities in the market today. From my experience over the past year, and particularly the last six months, I’ve observed significant interest from foreign investors in Nigeria’s potential,” he revealed.
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Cardoso highlighted that outsiders see immense opportunities in Nigeria’s assets and are already positioning themselves to benefit from the anticipated economic turnaround. He urged citizens not to abandon the country but to join the effort in shaping a brighter future.
Acknowledging the hardships Nigerians are currently facing due to ongoing economic reforms, Cardoso stressed that these measures are designed to address immediate challenges while laying the groundwork for a prosperous future.
“We are building an economy where every individual, every business, and every community can thrive,” he stated. However, he noted that achieving this vision requires collective effort, saying, “It’s not the responsibility of one institution alone. Banks, regulators, businesses, and citizens must come together with steadfast resolve to make it happen.”
Cardoso’s remarks come at a critical time when many Nigerians are disillusioned with the state of the nation.
