The Executive Governor of the Central Bank of Liberia (CBL) Henry F. Saamoi has warned that the growing challenge of non-performing loans could limit access to credit and slow economic growth if stronger measures are not taken to improve loan recovery and lending practices.
Saamoi made the statement on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, during a one-day media orientation ahead of the National Non-Performing Loans Conference which is scheduled for September 9-11 2026 at the Ellen Johnson Sirleaf Ministerial Complex in Oldest Congo Town.
The NPL conference is expected to bring together government officials, bankers, lawyers, members of the judiciary, business leaders, legislators and development partners.
He said the conference will focus on finding practical ways to address problems surrounding unpaid loans, collateral enforcement, credit discipline and responsible lending.
“This is not merely another financial sector event,” Saamoi said. “It is a strategic national dialogue intended to address one of the most persistent constraints to economic growth, private sector development, access to credit, and financial sector stability in Liberia.”
The CBL Governor explained that when banks struggle to recover loans, they often become more cautious about lending. He said this can make it harder for businesses, farmers, young entrepreneurs and women-owned businesses to obtain the financing they need to grow.
Saamoi said the issue therefore goes beyond the banking sector and has a direct impact on businesses, jobs and economic opportunities.
“Addressing the NPL challenge is not only a banking-sector priority; it is a national development imperative,” he said.
The conference will also examine Liberia’s credit infrastructure, including the Enhanced Collateral Registry System. Saamoi said improving the system could give banks greater confidence to lend, particularly to small and medium-sized businesses.
“By strengthening the legal and operational framework for secured transactions, we can improve lenders’ confidence and broaden financing opportunities for businesses and households,” he said.
Saamoi also called for stronger legal and regulatory systems to ensure that financial disputes are resolved in a timely and predictable manner.
He urged the media to help explain the issue to the public in simple and accurate terms, noting that discussions about loans, collateral and financial reforms can sometimes be difficult for ordinary people to understand.
“We ask for your partnership in ensuring that the public receives accurate, balanced, and insightful reporting,” Saamoi told journalists.
He said the media would have an important role in informing the public about the conference and explaining how its recommendations could affect borrowers, lenders and the wider economy.
Saamoi encouraged journalists to ask questions and seek clarification during the conference, saying a better understanding of the issue would lead to more informed public discussion.
He said the ultimate goal is to improve access to credit while protecting the stability of Liberia’s financial system.
“Together, let us work toward a more resilient financial sector, a stronger credit culture, expanded access to finance, and a more prosperous Liberia,” Saamoi said.
