The World Bank has revealed a substantial commitment of over $16 billion to Nigeria through 28 active projects, aimed at addressing the country’s critical development challenges and accelerating economic recovery.
In a statement released on Saturday, the Bank noted that the funding—largely sourced from concessional financing through the International Development Association (IDA) and the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD)—is strategically directed at expanding access to electricity, education, and healthcare, promoting gender inclusion, enhancing food security, and creating economic opportunities.
As part of efforts to deepen its partnership with Nigeria, the World Bank’s Regional Vice President for Western and Central Africa, Mr. Ousmane Diagana, is scheduled for an official visit to the country from April 14 to 17, 2025.
During his four-day visit, Diagana will engage in high-level discussions with top government officials on Nigeria’s economic recovery, job creation, human capital investment, and energy sector reform. He is expected to meet with Vice President Kashim Shettima at the Presidential Villa to strengthen bilateral cooperation and explore new avenues for development collaboration.
Diagana’s itinerary also includes consultations with key cabinet members, such as Minister of Finance Wale Edun, Minister of Budget and Economic Planning Senator Abubakar Bagudu, and Ministers of Power, Health, Communications and Digital Economy, and Humanitarian Affairs.
A key focus of the visit will be on financing Nigeria’s power sector. Diagana will participate in a strategic roundtable with major stakeholders to discuss unlocking sustainable funding and attracting private sector investments to boost reliable, affordable electricity—an area identified as a major constraint to industrial growth and public service delivery.
In addition to his engagements in Abuja, the World Bank executive will visit Kaduna, where he will be received by Governor Uba Sani at the Kashim Ibrahim Government House. While there, he will tour World Bank-funded projects, assess implementation progress, and interact with community members and beneficiaries.
This visit underscores the World Bank’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s development agenda and fostering inclusive, sustainable growth.
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