CBN Opens 2025 Knowledge Acceleration Programme to Shape Nigeria’s Economic Future – APPLY NOW

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has opened applications for its 2025 Knowledge Acceleration Programme (KAP) Thematic Workshops. The proposal submission begins on July 15, 2025, with workshops scheduled for August 4–5, August 7–8, and August 11–12, in Abuja.

This initiative is part of CBN’s strategy to support innovative, multidisciplinary research that will inform future policy directions and drive economic growth in Nigeria.

A Strategic Move to Empower Research

Through this programme, CBN aims to strengthen Nigeria’s position as a policy knowledge hub. Researchers from academia, think tanks, and public institutions are invited to submit original proposals that explore national challenges around development, financial regulation, and international finance.

Aderinola Shonekan, Director of CBN’s Research Department, noted that the workshops will help researchers improve their ideas through expert-led discussions and peer reviews. These research concepts will then be transformed into workable policy papers and tools for government use.

Who Can Apply?

This programme is open to:

• Academics and researchers in Nigerian universities
• Analysts and professionals in finance or public policy
• Experts from local and international institutions focused on Nigeria

Applicants will receive access to mentorship, peer collaboration, and exposure to real-world policy problems that need urgent attention.

Workshop Research Themes

Participants must choose one thematic cluster when submitting proposals:

Theme I – Development Cluster
Focus: Economic growth, employment creation, income distribution

Theme II – International Finance Cluster
Focus: Capital flows, exchange rates, portfolio investments, asset pricing

Theme III – Regulation and Competition Cluster
Focus: Fintech, digital money, systemic risks, payment systems, illicit finance

Proposal Guidelines

To ensure clarity and focus, CBN has issued the following formatting rules:

• Maximum length: 2 pages only
• Font: Georgia, 11pt, single-spaced
• Emphasize the “What” and “Why” of the research idea
• Include charts, tables, and references (not counted in the page limit)
• Use endnotes, not footnotes
• Cite all sources and mark original data clearly
• Use any standard referencing format (APA, MLA, etc.)

Shortlisted participants must be ready to explain their methodology and show how their proposal connects with relevant literature and policy needs.

Special Research Focus Areas

CBN is particularly interested in topics that improve understanding of:

• Non-bank financial risks
• Capital flow dynamics and reserve management
• Off-balance-sheet exposures
• Risk-based regulation
• Digital innovation in audit and compliance
• Macroeconomic modeling for Nigeria

These topics align with the Bank’s mission to adapt monetary policy and financial regulation to the realities of a dynamic economy.

Deadline and Submission Portal

• Submission Opens: July 15, 2025
• Closes: July 22, 2025 (Midnight)
• Portal: https://kapsubmissions.cbn.gov.ng

Successful applicants will be contacted and informed of workshop schedules by July 30, 2025.

Why You Should Apply

This is a unique opportunity to:

• Influence national economic policies
• Collaborate with top researchers and CBN experts
• Develop impactful working papers
• Build visibility and reputation in policy circles
• Be part of Nigeria’s future economic transformation

Whether you’re an academic, independent analyst, or development practitioner, this is your chance to contribute to real policy outcomes. APPLY NOW and take the lead in shaping Nigeria’s financial future.