How CBN’s Revamped Website is Making Waves
By Mohammed Dahiru Lawal
Amidst the growing dynamics of emerging technology and consequent evolution of the information and communication landscape, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), has recently launched a newly designed website, marking a significant milestone in the apex Bank’s digital transformation journey.
This development comes about a decade after the previous website was introduced, showcasing the CBN’s commitment to embracing cutting-edge technology and enhancing user experience.
Tech Digest reports that in December 2024, the Bank announced the development in a circular signed by its Acting Director of Corporate Communications, Hakama Sidi Ali, emphasing that the development will serve as a symbol of institutional trust and bridge the gap between it and its stakeholders.
The redesign process was influenced by public feedback, which the bank acknowledged as instrumental in shaping the new platform.
“We are committed to developing and enhancing the website to facilitate communication,” Ali stated in the circular.
Earlier in October 2024, CBN Governor Olayemi Cardoso disclosed that the bank was in the final stages of the redesign, aiming to improve transparency and accountability while aligning with the bank’s broader goals of fostering trust and engagement with the public.
This focus came into reality when the website was unveiled as part of activities commemorating the first anniversary of the Olayemi Cardoso-led Management team of the bankers bank in December 2024.
“In a world increasingly shaped by technology and rapid digital transformation, a website is more than just an online presence; it is a statement of purpose and i must commend the CBN for getting it very right on this one,” says Fom Gyem, a tech reporter with Tech Digest.
From investors, corporations, journalists, academics, and researchers, among other stakeholders of the apex bank, the website’s responsive design and streamlined navigation make it intuitive and easy to find information quicker.
The new website features a robust information architecture, ensuring that data is organized logically and presented in a clear, concise manner. This enhancement enables users to effortlessly locate specific information, reducing the time spent searching for relevant data.
The updated website also incorporates a refreshed visual identity, reflecting the CBN’s evolving brand. The modernized color scheme, typography, and imagery contribute to a visually appealing and professional online presence.
The Deputy Governor, Economic Policy, Mr. Muhammad Sani Abdullahi, eloquently articulated the vision that drove this ambitious update. “Our role as the central bank of one of Africa’s largest economies demands that we continuously adapt, innovate, and modernize,” he said. “The previous platform, which had served us since 2014, had become inadequate for the needs of today’s stakeholders.
It was time to address the challenges of outdated technology, limited functionality, and subpar user experience that hampered our ability to communicate effectively.”
In his remarks at the launching, Mr. Abdullahi underscored that the redesigned website represents a forward-thinking response to these challenges.
Built in-house by the Bank’s Corporate Communications and Information Technology teams, the platform leverages cutting-edge technologies to deliver a seamless, secure, and user-centric experience. “This is not just a new website,” he added. “It is a commitment to transparency, trust, and excellence, reflecting the core values that guide every decision we make as an institution.”
For visitors to the website, the changes are immediately evident. A cleaner, more intuitive interface welcomes users, providing easy access to a treasure trove of resources, including economic data, financial reports, monetary policy updates, and regulatory guidelines. Sophisticated data visualization tools make complex information accessible to both experts and laypersons, while advanced security features ensure that the platform remains a safe and trusted repository of information.
Mrs. Hakama Sidi Ali, the Acting Director of the Corporate Communications Department, expressed her gratitude to the Bank’s leadership for prioritizing innovation and communication in such a tangible way.
“This project was a collective effort,” she said, beaming with pride. “From the IT Department’s technical expertise to the creativity and resilience of the Corporate Communications team, every contribution was invaluable. This website is more than a platform; it is a symbol of our shared dedication to serving the Nigerian people and all our stakeholders with excellence.”
Mrs. Sidi Ali also highlighted the importance of feedback and engagement in refining the platform further. “We encourage everyone to explore the website, share their experiences, and help us make it even better. This is a living platform, designed to evolve with the needs of its users,” she said.
The redesign has already begun to draw attention from various quarters. Academics and researchers, who rely heavily on the Bank’s data and publications, have applauded the new platform for its ease of use and depth of information.
Associate Professor Nura Ibrahim, Head of the Department of Information and Media Studies, observed, “The CBN’s redesigned website marks a significant advancement in institutional communication. Its user-friendly design and enhanced data visualization tools make accessing critical information not only faster but also more engaging, which is a transformative development for media practitioners, researchers, and educators alike.”
Journalists, too, have expressed their appreciation for the update. “As a reporter, I need to distill complex financial policies into stories that the public can understand,” said Amina Sule, a financial correspondent for a leading news outlet in Gombe. “The redesigned website simplifies this process by making critical information easily accessible and understandable. It’s a journalist’s dream.”
Policy enthusiasts are equally optimistic. “This is a testament to Nigeria’s commitment to transparency and effective governance,” said Musa Sani, a public policy analyst. “The CBN’s new platform is not only a tool for Nigerians but also a valuable resource for the global community.”
The Head of the Communication Management and Strategy Division, Mr. Ibrahim Abbas, highlighted the broader implications of the redesign. “This milestone reflects our determination to leverage technology in enhancing accessibility and transparency,” he said. “By providing an intuitive and engaging user experience, we are not only meeting current expectations but also setting a benchmark for other institutions.”
For the general public, the new website is an opportunity to engage more deeply with the CBN’s policies and initiatives. “Before now, I found it difficult to navigate the old website,” said Bolaji Olatunde, a small business owner in Abuja. “The new design makes it so much easier to find information about loan programs and financial literacy resources. It feels like the CBN is finally speaking directly to people like me.”
Despite the glowing reviews, the project team remains focused on continuous improvement. “This is just the beginning,” Mrs. Sidi Ali affirmed. “Our goal is to ensure that the website remains dynamic, responsive, and reflective of the ever-evolving needs of our stakeholders.”
As the first significant update since 2014, the redesigned website is a bold declaration of the CBN’s intent to stay ahead in an increasingly digital world. It bridges the gap between a storied institution and its diverse audience, from international investors and financial analysts to students, journalists, and everyday Nigerians.
In many ways, the launch of the new website is a microcosm of the Bank’s broader mission: to foster trust, drive innovation, and support economic stability in Nigeria. It is a reminder that even in the age of fleeting digital trends, a well-executed platform can be a lasting testament to an organization’s values and vision.
As the website continues to evolve, so too will its impact, enabling the CBN to fulfill its mandate with renewed vigor and clarity. For now, it stands as a beacon of transparency and excellence, reflecting not just the aspirations of the Central Bank of Nigeria but also the boundless potential of the nation it serves.
By Tech Digest (NADIR)
