By Muhammad Mamman
Nigeria’s sweeping economic reforms under President Bola Tinubu are now being cited worldwide as a reference point for policy implementation and measurable results, according to Anna Bjerde, Managing Director of Operations at the World Bank.
Bjerde made the remarks on Tuesday during a visit to the State House in Abuja, where she led a World Bank delegation to meet President Tinubu and Vice-President Kashim Shettima.
She said Nigeria’s reform agenda — particularly in fiscal management, energy pricing and social protection — is attracting growing international attention, with several countries studying the Tinubu administration’s approach as a model for tackling deep-rooted economic challenges.
“Globally, Nigeria is increasingly becoming a reference point when discussions turn to difficult but necessary reforms and how to implement them,” Bjerde said, praising the government’s resolve in pursuing policies aimed at stabilising the economy and restoring investor confidence.
President Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to structural reforms, stressing that short-term sacrifices were necessary to secure long-term economic stability and inclusive growth. He said the government remains focused on expanding social safety nets, strengthening institutions and creating an enabling environment for private-sector investment.
Vice-President Shettima highlighted ongoing efforts to cushion the impact of reforms on vulnerable Nigerians, noting that targeted interventions were being rolled out to support low-income households and small businesses.
The World Bank delegation also held discussions with senior government officials on areas of continued collaboration, including power sector reforms, revenue mobilisation and human capital development.
Nigeria has embarked on major policy shifts since Tinubu assumed office in May 2023, including the removal of fuel subsidies and the unification of foreign exchange rates — moves widely regarded as bold but controversial. The government says the reforms are essential to fixing long-standing economic distortions and setting the country on a sustainable growth path.
