Amid global economic stagnation and domestic upheaval, the Egyptian banking sector has performed remarkably steadily. However, one of the key facets behind its success – its conservatism – is coming under increasing criticism from some, who claim its reluctance to lend beyond large corporations and government entities is holding the country back.

Speculation about who will succeed Sanusi Lamido Sanusi as Nigeria’s central bank governor next year is mounting. Outgoing Access Bank CEO Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, one of the leading candidates, tells The Banker the role would be difficult to turn down. 

Namibia has managed to overcome the worst of the global economic slump, while a huge new uranium mine could boost its growth greatly in the next few years. But the country still has plenty to do to tackle its most pressing social issues. 

The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development's managing director for the southern and eastern Mediterranean region, Hildegard Gacek, explains how expertise and past experience are now enabling the EBRD to assist Egypt, Morocco, Jordan and Tunisia through a period of great economic and political change.

Namibia’s banks are among the most sophisticated and safest in Africa, but they are coming under increasing pressure to service the country's unbanked population and small businesses. 

Ecobank has been hurt recently by several allegations concerning its corporate governance. But Thierry Tanoh, its chief executive, insists it has done nothing wrong. He also explains why the pan-African lender represents a unique investment opportunity.