Nigeria’s Economy on the Mend: Bismarck Rewane Says the Recovery Is Real
By Akin Alade, The Nigerian Standard
At a time when many Nigerians still question whether the country’s economy is truly improving, one of the nation’s most respected financial analysts, Bismarck Rewane, insists that the signs of recovery are not just numbers on paper — they are real, measurable, and sustainable.
Speaking at the Lagos Business School (LBS) Breakfast Session, Rewane, who is the Chief Executive Officer of Financial Derivatives Company (FDC) Limited, presented a paper titled “Reality Check: Is Nigeria’s Economic Recovery Authentic? Yes, It Is.”
With his trademark blend of wit and data-driven analysis, Rewane told the audience that Nigeria’s economy is gradually climbing out of a prolonged slump. “Economic recovery,” he explained, “is that critical phase when growth resumes after a period of contraction or downturn. What we are seeing now is not accidental — it’s the beginning of a new cycle.”
Numbers That Tell a Story
Rewane highlighted encouraging signs — from easing inflation to an upward trend in Gross Domestic Product (GDP). These, he said, are clear indicators that the country’s economic fundamentals are improving. Although he cautioned that challenges remain, he emphasized that the trend lines point toward growth rather than stagnation.
According to the economist, sectors such as agriculture, services, and manufacturing are showing renewed activity, and investor confidence is beginning to return. “We must remember,” he noted, “that recovery is not a straight line — it’s a process that builds momentum over time.”
Beyond the Statistics
Rewane’s optimism comes amid widespread skepticism among citizens who are yet to feel relief from rising living costs. Yet, he insists that the macroeconomic signals — falling inflation rates, stable exchange trends, and growing business sentiment — reflect genuine progress.
“Recovery doesn’t mean all problems are solved,” he said. “But it does mean the economy is responding positively to policy reforms and market adjustments.”
The Bigger Picture
For Rewane, the task ahead lies in maintaining policy consistency and ensuring that the benefits of recovery reach ordinary Nigerians. He urged both the government and private sector players to sustain reforms that encourage productivity and job creation.
“The Nigerian economy,” he concluded, “has shown remarkable resilience. What we need now is discipline and continuity — that’s how to turn recovery into lasting prosperity.”
