Nigeria’s business community received a strong message of cautious optimism as the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN) and LIMBsimple presented a positive economic outlook for 2026, highlighting emerging opportunities for business owners across key sectors of the economy.
The outlook was shared during the 2026 Economic Outlook Conference, hosted under the LIMBsimple Alumni Hangout Series, where CIBN’s Deputy Director, Economics and Strategy, Dr. Sunday Oreitan Adigun outlined projections pointing to an estimated 4.4 percent economic growth in 2026. According to him, the forecast reflects improving macroeconomic fundamentals, including moderating inflation, gradual exchange-rate stability, and stronger external reserves.
Dr. Adigun noted that these indicators suggest a more predictable business environment, allowing entrepreneurs and investors to plan with greater confidence. While interest rates remain relatively high, he explained that easing inflationary pressures could create room for improved credit conditions over time, especially as banking sector reforms and recapitalisation strengthen the capacity of financial institutions to support the real economy.
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From a business-owner perspective, the session emphasized the importance of preparation and positioning. Participants were advised to strengthen governance structures, improve financial reporting, and build creditworthiness in order to take advantage of expanding funding opportunities. The discussion also highlighted the growing role of development finance institutions, sector-focused lenders, and alternative financing platforms in supporting SMEs and large enterprises alike.
Speaking on the rationale behind the partnership with CIBN, Founder of LIMBsimple, Ezekiel Solesi said the collaboration with CIBN was aimed at ensuring entrepreneurs have access to reliable economic intelligence that directly informs business strategy.
“Our alumni are business owners who need clarity, not noise,” Solesi said. “Partnering with CIBN allows us to bring authoritative economic insights closer to entrepreneurs, helping them understand what the 2026 outlook truly means for their operations, investments, and growth plans.”
He added that the economic outlook is particularly important at a time when many businesses are rethinking expansion, financing, and market entry decisions. According to Solesi, understanding macroeconomic trends enables business owners to anticipate risks, identify growth sectors early, and make more informed long-term decisions.
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“The goal is not just to predict the economy, but to help business owners respond strategically,” he said. “When entrepreneurs understand where the economy is headed, they can align their businesses with opportunities rather than react to challenges after the fact.”
Sectoral insights shared at the conference pointed to positive prospects in services, technology, trade, agribusiness, telecommunications, and infrastructure-linked industries, supported by government spending priorities in power, transport, education, health, and water resources.
Overall, the CIBN–LIMBsimple 2026 Economic Outlook delivered a message of opportunity anchored in preparation. As economic conditions gradually improve, business owners who stay informed, strengthen their fundamentals, and align with growth sectors are better positioned to unlock value and build resilient enterprises in the year ahead.
