Emefiele begins second tenure as CBN Governor

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…To unfold new 5-year Road-map

Following the confirmation of his re-appointment as Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) by the Senate, Mr. Godwin Emefiele, on Monday, formally assumed duty after subscribing to the relevant Oath of Office administered by the Bank’s Secretary and Director, Corporate Secretariat Department, Mrs. Alice Karau.

A statement from the CBN said that in his remarks after the oath-taking ceremony, Emefiele disclosed that he is expected to address a World Press Conference in the coming days, where he will unfold a new road map for the Central Bank of Nigeria and the economy.

“He will unfold a new road map for the Bank and the economy, in the days ahead, after a series of consultations with critical stakeholder groups.”

He charged all stakeholders to strengthen efforts at building a healthy and stable system in the best interest of Nigeria.

The Governor also reiterated his goal to make the CBN more people-focused, adding that “the Bank remained resolute in the belief that the Bank must play an active role in supporting job and wealth creation in Nigeria.”

In reviewing the various efforts taken by the Bank to reduce weaknesses in the Nigerian financial system as well as support improved productivity of the Nigerian economy, Emefiele said more work still needed to be done in building a stronger economy for the benefit of all.

According to him, the pace of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth remained fragile and was below the rate of Nigeria’s annual population growth at 2.7 per cent. He, therefore, pledged that the Bank would continue to collaborate with the fiscal authorities to strengthen growth and wealth creation in the country

“We must strengthen our efforts over the coming years to stimulate growth and job creation in critical sectors of the economy, which will help insulate our economy from shocks in the global economy. We must also work to build a healthy and stable financial system that contributes to the growth of our economy while preserving price stability,” he added.

Mr. Emefiele, was received into the Bank by the four Deputy Governors, and he “was visibly elated by the turnout of excited staff that thronged the venue of the oath-taking ceremony chanting his name.”

Emefiele expressed gratitude to God; President Muhammadu Buhari, for nominating him; and the Senate for confirming his appointment. He also thanked the management and staff as well as the media for all their support during his first term in office.