The Federal Government of Nigeria, said that the country’s financial sector grew by over 30% in the first half of 2024.
Wale Edun, the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, through its representative Dr Armstrong Takang, said the growth indicated a strong recovery from the contractions observed in 2021, and further contributing to Nigeria’s economic stability.
He make the remark yesterday Tuesday at the 17th Annual Banking and Finance Conference in Abuja.
How Nigeria’s Financial Sector Achieved Over 30% Growth in 2024 First Half
“The financial sector continues to demonstrate resilience, rebounding strongly from the contractions observed in 2021. The sector has grown by over 30% during the first half of this year, further bolstering our overall economic stability,” Edun stated. He also emphasized the sector’s vital role in driving economic growth.
Edun in his speech, highlighted that the Nigerian economy had shown promising signs of progress despite challenges in some sectors.
He pointed out that Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product had improved, with growth rising from 3% in the first quarter to 3.2% in the second quarter of 2024, with hopes of reaching a 3.7% target by the end of the year.
“Our commitment to continue reforms aims to achieve a 3.7% growth target by year-end,” he said.
The minister also acknowledged sector-specific developments, especially in oil and gas, which recorded 10% growth during the second quarter of 2024.
“The oil and gas sector saw a notable increase of 10% during the second quarter and a significant rebound from the contraction experienced in the same period last year,” he said.
Meanwhile, the non-oil sector maintained a steady 2.8% growth rate. Edun also addressed the challenges faced by the Nigerian economy.
He noted that sectors such as transportation, wholesale, retail trade, and manufacturing had experienced slower growth.
According to him, the government was implementing various measures to support these industries, including plans to enhance the supply of Premium Motor Spirit by 25 million litres starting in September and procuring biofuel buses and CNG conversion kits.
Meanwhile, Kashim Shettima the Vice President of Nigeria, who represented President Bola Tinubu at the event, also delivered a speech highlighting the importance of collaboration between the government and the banking sector.
He commended the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria for its continued commitment to advancing Nigeria’s financial landscape.
“The Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria has over the years demonstrated its unrelenting commitment to advancing the dynamic and evolving landscape of our economy,” Shettima said.
He added that the institute’s efforts play a crucial role in supporting the government’s efforts to rebuild the economy.
Shettima stressed that the Nigerian economy was on the path to recovery, with GDP growth recorded at 18.19% in the second quarter of 2024.
He emphasised the importance of fostering financial inclusion, supporting investments, and ensuring sustainable development.
“Nigeria’s economic story is one of resilience, determination, and gradual recovery. Despite global challenges, including inflationary pressures and geopolitical tensions, our nation continues to push forward,” he said.
Edun further noted the administration’s progress in revenue generation, with federal government revenue for the first half of 2024 reaching N9.1tn, more than double that of the same period in 2023.
“Aggregate federal government revenue for the first half of 2024 reached N9.1tn, more than double that of the same period in 2023. This substantial increase reflects the success of our revenue collection reforms and effective use of technology,” Edun stated.
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