Founded in 1959 by decree n° 59-209, the Banque Nationale d’Investissement (BNI) of Côte d’Ivoire emerged from the Ivorian government’s vision to establish a robust and credible institution pivotal to the country’s development. Originally known as the Caisse Autonome d’Amortissement (CAA), its initial mandate encompassed mobilizing both internal and external resources to fund national development, servicing public debt, and managing deposits of National Public Institutions (EPN).

In 1998, BNI underwent a transformation, obtaining banking accreditation from the UMOA Banking Commission and BCEAO to become a state-owned investment bank. It expanded its role to encompass investment banking, refinancing, advisory services, and asset management by 2008. This evolution enabled BNI to function across six core areas: stabilizing public savings, financing agricultural investments, refinancing banks and financial institutions, engaging in public-private partnerships for profitable public investments and SMEs, participating in the capital markets, and executing public service contracts.

To align with its diversified functions, BNI officially changed its name to Banque Nationale d’Investissement in 2004, with its capital increased to 20.5 billion CFA francs. It subsequently established two subsidiaries: BNI-FINANCES in January 2004, specializing in asset management and intermediary services to support its core banking functions, and BNI-GESTION in late 2008, focused on asset management and fund administration.

By 2017, BNI was tasked with enhancing financial accessibility, supporting SME financing, and advising the government on financial matters. However, as of 2022, in line with its strategic objectives, BNI has consolidated its mission to focus singularly on providing tailored financial solutions to foster the development of businesses, enterprises, and the population at large.

BNI continues to play a pivotal role in Côte d’Ivoire’s economic landscape, leveraging its expertise and comprehensive service offerings to drive sustainable growth and prosperity across the nation.