Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor Olayemi Cardoso has affirmed that Nigeria will play an active role in shaping global stablecoin regulatory frameworks to ensure digital innovation supports financial stability and economic sovereignty. Speaking at the IMF/World Bank meetings, Cardoso stressed the need for balancing the potential of digital assets with sound financial integrity.
Nigeria at the Forefront of Digital Asset Regulation
Olayemi Cardoso, the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), has publicly committed to positioning Nigeria as a key player in defining the global regulatory landscape for stablecoins and other digital assets. He made the statement in Washington D.C., following the conclusion of the 2025 annual meetings of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank Group.
Cardoso noted that the discussions at the meetings underscored the increasing global significance of fintech and digital assets, particularly stablecoins.
Balancing Innovation with Sovereignty
While acknowledging the undeniable potential of stablecoins to enhance payments inclusion and cross-border transactions, the CBN Governor pointed out that they also raise critical issues concerning:
- Monetary Sovereignty
- Exchange Rate Stability
- Financial Integrity
Cardoso stressed that as global regulators work to define clear frameworks, Nigeria intends to engage actively to help shape the conversation. This commitment ensures that digital innovation will support, rather than undermine, financial stability and economic sovereignty.
The Governor also reaffirmed the CBN’s strong partnership with the local fintech sector, which he described as “ambassadors of Nigeria’s creativity.” He emphasized that this collaboration is crucial for building a secure and inclusive digital financial system, but insisted that innovation must be matched with integrity and sound regulation.
