Significant development, visualise that, the Nigerian Senate is set to conduct a thorough screening process for Dr. Olayemi Cardoso, the former Chairman of the Board of Citi Bank Nigeria, as he vies for the coveted position of Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). This pivotal decision underscores the Senate’s commitment to ensuring the utmost competence in the leadership of the nation’s apex bank.
Furthermore, the Senate will simultaneously evaluate four distinguished nominees for the vital roles of Deputy Governors at the CBN. These nominees, once confirmed, will collaborate closely with Dr. Cardoso to guide the affairs of the central bank over the next five years. Their collective expertise will play a pivotal role in shaping Nigeria’s economic future.
This announcement came through an official statement from the Media Office of the Senate Leader, Opeyemi Bamidele. The Senate, having recently returned from its annual recess, is prepared to diligently assess all the nominees in line with its constitutional responsibilities.
To provide context, the Senate had adjourned its sitting on August 8 for the annual recess, but it is now gearing up for a robust period of legislative scrutiny and decision-making.
As conveyed in the statement: “The Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria will resume plenary on Tuesday, September 26. We will consider the screening of Dr. Cardoso at the Committee of the Whole. Cardoso will be screened alongside four Deputy Governors, namely: Mrs. Emem Usoro, Mr. Muhammad Dattijo, Mr. Philip Ikeazor, and Dr. Bala Bello.”
In addition to the CBN nominations, the Senate has also scheduled screenings for ministerial nominees Dr. Jamila Ibrahim and Mr. Ayodele Olawande. Dr. Ibrahim is designated as the Minister of Youth, while Mr. Olawande is designated as the Minister of State for Youth. Their evaluations are slated for October 3.
This momentous development follows President Bola Tinubu’s announcement on September 15, wherein he approved the nomination of Dr. Olayemi Cardoso as the prospective Governor of the CBN. President Tinubu also greenlit the nominations of the four Deputy Governors, each appointed for a term of five years, pending confirmation by the Senate. This marks a significant step in shaping the financial landscape of Nigeria for years to come.
