Central Bank of Nigeria seeks financial inclusivity in Gombe
The Central Bank of Nigeria, has organised a programme to engage the public on the bank’s policies and strategic interventions for sustainable economic development in Nigeria.
The programme tagged, CBN FAIR, with the theme, Promoting Alternative Financial Payment Channels as Tools for Financial Inclusion.
In his welcome remark, Branch Controller Shehu Goringo, who was represented by Abdullahi Baba Isah, welcomed participants to the fair held at the International Conference Centre in Gombe.
He emphasised that the event aimed to highlight the crucial role played by the CBN in shaping the Nigerian economy, ensuring financial stability, and fostering prosperity.
Goringo emphasised that the fair aimed to provide insight into the workings of the CBN, discussing challenges and exchanging knowledge and best practices. It showcased the transformative power of technology and digital advancements in the central banking domain, encouraging innovation and collaboration. Networking opportunities were available for professionals, policymakers, entrepreneurs, farmers, and businessmen, promoting collective progress.
In his opening remarks, Dr. Isa Abdulmumin, Director of the Corporate Communications Department at the Central Bank of Nigeria, emphasised the CBN’s commitment as a responsible corporate citizen in supporting businesses and promoting diversification across various sectors, including agriculture, health, and manufacturing.
Highlighting the significance of modern payment infrastructures for ease of business transactions, Dr. Abdulmumin urged the audience to pay attention as they were informed about their rights and responsibilities regarding their relationship with banks. He also emphasized the importance of the national currency, the Naira, urging respect and proper handling to preserve its integrity.
He called for the public’s cooperation in refraining from actions such as spraying, hawking, mutilating, or counterfeiting the Naira.
Assuring attendees of the CBN’s commitment to its core mandate of ensuring monetary and price stability, Abdulmumin stated that the bank would continue to implement proactive and innovative policies to support all economic sub-sectors.
In a goodwill message, Mr Abubakar Dauda, Permanent Secretary, Budget, Planning and Development Partner Coordination Office, noted that the essence of programmes such as these cannot be overemphasised, he thanked the CBN for their efforts and encouraged them to further cascade the massage, to especially rural areas, where online transfers are treated with skepticism. He noted that the CBN has been a partner in the development of the state, through it’s Anchor Borrowers programme and support funding for several hospitals in thes state.
The fair featured presentations by various CBN departments. The Consumer Protection Department discussed how the bank has protected the rights of financial consumers. The Currency Operations Department enlightened the audience on keeping the Naira clean and the CBN’s efforts to ensure its availability. The Payment System Management Department showcased recent innovations in the Nigerian payment system. The Financial Market Department provided insights into recent developments in the foreign exchange market.
