About Us
The Knowledge Acceleration Programme (KAP) is a new initiative by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) aimed at fostering evidence-based policy through academic research. It is part of CBN’s broader effort to build a research-driven policy environment and develop a community of economists who can influence and shape Nigeria’s economic future.
The initiative is aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s position as a thought leader in economic policy through targeted multidisciplinary research. In a circular signed by Aderinola Shonekan, Director of the CBN Research Department, the apex bank invited researchers across academia and policy institutions to submit competitive proposals focused on key drivers of wealth creation, human development, and international competitiveness in Nigeria.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must be:
- Researchers, academics, or economists working on Nigeria-focused or Africa-relevant issues.
- Postgraduate students (especially at PhD level) in economics, finance, or related fields.
- Policy professionals or analysts with experience in economic research, central banking, or financial regulation.
Benefits of the CBN Knowledge Acceleration Programme
1. Research Development Support:
- Selected participants will receive technical feedback and expert guidance to refine their proposals into high-quality, publishable working papers.
- CBN economists and external experts will provide one-on-one mentorship during workshops.
2. Prestige and Recognition:
- Your research will be reviewed by leading economists, policymakers, and academics.
- Being selected signals credibility and thought leadership in economic policy research.
3. Policy Influence:
- A chance to contribute directly to shaping CBN’s research agenda and Nigeria’s economic policy priorities.
- Selected projects may be used in policymaking, cited in CBN research, or developed further for implementation.
4. Networking Opportunities
- Collaborate with a community of leading researchers, central bankers, and policy professionals.
- Gain access to CBN data, resources, and internal research insights.
- Build relationships that may lead to future research collaborations or consulting opportunities
5. Capacity Building
- Improve your research design, analytical methods, and policy communication skills.
- Learn best practices from top-tier economists and monetary policy experts
Why You Should Participate
- Contribute to setting Nigeria’s future research agenda, with real policy impact.
- Benefit from expert feedback and peer interaction to develop publishable work.
- Help shape CBN’s strategic direction in monetary policy, fintech regulation, financial stability, and more
