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.
Advertise on NigerianEye.com to reach thousands of our daily users
No comments
Post a Comment
Kindly drop a comment below.
(Comments are moderated. Clean comments will be approved immediately)
Advert Enquires - Reach out to us at NigerianEye@gmail.com