Adoption of a new monetary policy framework to be effective from Monday
December 11 th 2006
The new monetary policy framework would be launched on Monday December 4, 2006
The new Monetary policy framework would introduce a new Monetary Policy Rate (
MPR ) to replace the Minimum Rediscount Rate ( MRR )
The MPR would be the main instrument of the new monetary policy framework and
will determine the lower and upper band of the CBN standing facility and is
expected to have the capability of acting as the nominal anchor for other rates
Discontinue outright rediscounting of bills in the CBN to encourage trading
among the market operators
Ensure the full deployment of Information Technology (IT) infrastructure
(RTGS, T24, and eFASS) for the effective implementation of the new monetary
policy framework; and
Convene meeting of the MPC every other month to review developments in the
economy.
Reasons
Challenges arising from the new policy framework
Gave consideration to the policy setting rules such as the monetary policy
response function, the frequency of changes in the MPR , significance of
inflation considerations in determining the MPR , the problem of price, credit
and operational risks, sensitization of operators and other stakeholders,
training, etc
MPC Meeting of August 9, 2006
Maintained the MRR at 14% with a proviso to review the MRR should the
threat to monetary policy continue;
Approved a new framework for monetary policy implementation. The IT and
other logistics requirements are to be sorted out between now and October,
2006. Pilot implementation is expected to commence on or before November 1st,
2006
Sustained the CBN’s zero tolerance to lending to government;
Reaffirmed that there is no control on interest rate or pegging of lending
rate to the MRR;
Approved operational guidelines on the CBN Discount Window;
Approved guidelines for discount window operations in FGN bonds;
Sustained the on-going liberalization of the forex market.
MPC Meeting
of June 8, 2006
Raised the MRR from 13% to 14%, to take effect from 12th June, 2006;
Maintained the CRR at 5%;
Resolved to sustain the on-going liberalization of the forex market as
well as effectively monitor the market to maintain stability of the naira;
The OMO shall continue to be the
major instrument of monetary policy;
The Committee, further assured that it would respond to changes in
economic prospects as needed to support the attainment of its objectives.
MPC Meeting
of February 14, 2006
Resolved to work towards maintaining single digit (core) inflation;
The Bank will work towards zero ways and means. However, where it becomes
absolutely necessary, ways and means will not be more than 5% of last year’s
revenue; and such lending will attract the prevailing MRR + 1 per cent rate of
interest.
CBN will continue with regular OMO operations and issuance of new bills,
both TBs and CBN bills;
MRR will be maintained at 13% in line with the anti-inflation stance of
the MPC;
As a measure of tight monetary stance, M2 will be kept within the range of
15 to 17% target;
CRR is to be maintained at 5%, while the liquidity ratio will be retained
at 40%;