Stanbic IBTC Bank recently demonstrated its commitment to providing insights that empower businesses to navigate a complex economic landscape, at its annual Global Markets Economic Outlook forum,  held recently.

 

Tagged ‘Global Economic Trends and Nigeria’s Position’, the forum, which brought together key stakeholders, industry leaders, and clients, provided an opportunity for resources persons to assess global economic trends and Nigeria’s strategic position.

 

The session featured presentations from the Bank’s economists and market analysts, who addressed key global developments impacting emerging markets.

 

The discussions also examined shifting monetary policy directions among major central banks, evolving commodity price dynamics, and the accelerating pace of technological transformation within the global banking and financial services sector – particularly the growing role of digital infrastructure, artificial intelligence (AI), and innovation in shaping competitiveness and service delivery.

 

Delivering his keynote address, Resident Representative for Nigeria, International Monetary Fund (IMF),  Dr. Christian Ebeke shed light on the nation’s optimistic outlook, highlighting several factors, including rising hydrocarbon prices, decreasing global financing costs, and tax reforms that took effect in January 2026, all of which could help the country surpass its revenue targets. He also pointed out the advantages associated with enhanced state policing.

 

Dr. Ebeke advised Nigerians to capitalise on immediate opportunities, which include: securing oil pipelines, improving electricity infrastructure, and shifting investment from government securities to the private sector.

 

On Nigeria’s position, the session focused on the country’s trade trajectory within global supply chains, opportunities for export diversification, and the role of foreign exchange stability in supporting investor confidence amid an unpredictable external environment.

 

Executive Director, Corporate & Transaction Banking, Stanbic IBTC Bank,  Eric Fajemisin, described the forum as reflecting  the bank’s continued commitment to keeping clients ahead of global shifts that have direct implications for their businesses.

 

“As global trade patterns continue to realign, it’s important that our clients understand not just what is happening, but what it means for their operations and growth strategies. This forum is part of our ongoing effort to translate global trends into actionable insights for businesses operating in Nigeria,” he said.

 

Special Adviser on Financial Markets and Economic Policy to the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN),  Mayokun Ajibade, in a panel discussion,  emphasised the necessity of addressing excessive liquidity in the banking system as a sustainable means of combating inflation.

 

He expressed the importance of a balanced approach, advocating for a focus on lowering inflation before pursuing interest rate reductions; noting that the Nigerian banking system has too much liquidity, therefore a decline in interest rates should not be expected without first addressing inflation.

 

The panellists also shared tailored solutions addressing challenges such as FX hedging, liquidity management, and trade finance. Experts from Stanbic IBTC Bank, including Toborena Enachwo and Wonuola Akanbi, engaged in dynamic discussions focusing on tools, designed to help clients manage volatility effectively while optimising their cross-border operations.

 

Head, Global Markets, Nigeria, Stanbic IBTC Bank,  Dare Otitoju highlighted Nigeria’s growing relevance in global trade conversations, noting the country’s potential to strengthen its position as a trade and investment hub on the continent.

 

“Nigerians should look forward to a transition from stabilisation to selective growth. Global “higher for longer” rates indicate that capital will reward countries with policy consistency, which Nigeria is building, post-reforms.