World Bank Managing Director of Operation, Anna Bjerde, met with Federal Government authorities for talks on what she called “ambitious” plan of government to steer the economy towards recovery and what more support the Bretton Woods Institution can avail the Africa largest economy.
It was understood that ongoing talks are focused on macro-economic reforms as well as Nigeria’s social safety net programs which the bank is hugely supporting especially at this time.
Bjerde who is visiting Nigeria for the first time said she is also in the country to assess the ongoing projects and Programme of the World Bank in order to decide on areas of further support for the country currently undergoing economic stress.
“I have come to Nigeria to have conversations and discussions over the coming days on the ambitious plans that are being put in place on economic recovery, but also on our program, which is one of our largest programs that we have.”
“We have about 30 projects under implementation here in Nigeria, and it’s an opportunity for me to take stock of the progress and performance of our program and make sure that as the world bank, we provide all the support that we can as Nigeria embarks on reforms of its economy, and continues to focus on important transformation and opportunities,including in the energy sector, digitalization and human development,” Bjerde stated during an interaction with some select media on Wednesday evening.
In Bjerde brief speech, Finance minister, Wale Edun, acknowledged World Bank’s interest and support for Nigeria and noted that Bjerde’s visit which followed just six months after a similar one by Ajay Banga, World Bank president in August last year demonstrates confidence in the ongoing reforms of the present government and collaboration.
“They are here to interact with us,” Edun stated. “Recently, the president of the World Bank, Ajay Banga himself was received by Mr. President at the Villa and it’s in continuation of that close collaboration and that keen interest in what is going on in Nigeria at this time of major reforms and an attempt to get the country back on the path of growth, recovery and without, on unduly straining the people of Nigeria.”
“And the World Bank has been part of that whole process, helping us in the energy sector, macro-economic support, as well as social sector support.”