World Bank managing director (MD) of operations, Anna Bjerde, says Nigeria has become a frequent global reference point for reform implementation and results.
Bjerde made the remark 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 said the results from the reforms are commendable.
“Nigeria is a frequent example in my discussions with people around the world, presidents around the world, policymakers around the world, investors around the world, because I think in these two years, the results that have been achieved are really commendable,” she said.
Bjerde said the World Bank sees Nigeria’s reform progress as steady and notable, while commending Tinubu for staying the course to achieve desired results.
“Even when reform implementation can be difficult, there is no turning back. You’re staying the course, because it is what’s needed to get the results that you’re looking for,” she said.
The bank’s director outlined the Bretton Woods institution’s jobs-focused plan for Nigeria, aligning with Tinubu’s $1 trillion GDP vision, targeting infrastructure, agriculture, SMEs, and human development.
She also highlighted $17 billion public-sector support, $5 billion annual International Finance Corporation (IFC) funding, and guarantees to boost job creation.
Bjerde added that Nigeria is top country to watch in Africa, appreciating the government’s openness to World Bank partnerships, and commending the nation’s digital initiatives and private sector growth.
