Anna Bjerde, the World Bank’s managing director (MD) for operations, says Nigeria has become a frequent global reference point for steady, credible reform leadership.
According to a statement by Bayo Onanuga, special adviser to the president on information and strategy, Bjerde spoke on Tuesday at the State House, Abuja, where she and a World Bank delegation were received by President Bola Tinubu and Vice-President Kashim Shettima.
The MD commended Nigeria’s reform progress over the past two years, particularly the government’s consistent resolve to stay the course despite challenges.
She said the consistency and positive results from the reforms have built strong confidence among investors, policymakers, and the private sector.
Also, Bjerde highlighted that the forthcoming country partnership framework is anchored in Nigeria’s own development vision, which includes the goal of achieving a $1 trillion gross domestic product (GDP) and 7 percent growth.
The MD further called for improvement in access to finance for small, medium, and large enterprises, especially mid-sized firms, which she said are key drivers of employment.
Bjerde also acknowledged Nigeria’s focus on strengthening early childhood development as essential to long-term productivity, and assured the federal government of the World Bank’s support.
“Many countries around the world, even middle-income and upper-middle-income countries, are suffering again with rising levels of stunting. And here, we’ve identified early childhood development as a strong entry point. So, all of this, to say we’re looking forward to a new country partnership framework,” she said.
The MD also reaffirmed the World Bank’s commitment to a programme aligned with Nigeria’s priorities, combining public and private sector support.
Bjerde said the World Bank, through its institutions, the International Development Association (IDA), International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) and the International Finance Corporation (IFC), is ready to continue to support Nigeria’s reform agenda.
Wale Edun, the minister of finance and the coordinating minister of the economy, and Ibrahim Hassan Hadejia, the deputy chief of staff to the president, were also present at the event.
