Anna Bjerde, Managing Director of Operations at the World Bank, began a three-day official visit to Nigeria on February 1, 2026, to discuss how the international lender can support the country’s reform agenda, boost economic growth, expand energy access and promote jobs through private-sector-led development.
The visit underscores deepening engagement between Nigeria and the World Bank Group as policymakers prepare a new Country Partnership Framework (CPF). During her visit, Bjerde is holding a series of meetings with senior government officials, private sector leaders and civil society representatives to gather input on priorities for the CPF. According to the Bank, the strategy will prioritise job creation, broader energy access and an enabling environment to attract private investment — areas seen as critical to accelerating inclusive development in Nigeria.
The World Bank’s engagement also touches on the Mission 300 initiative, which aims to expand clean energy solutions and provide electricity to millions of Nigerians. In outlining the project’s goals, the Bank said off-grid and renewable energy programmes such as distributed mini-grids and solar home systems could connect about 17.5 million Nigerians to reliable household electricity, boosting productivity and supporting small business growth. Officials hosting the World Bank team noted that the discussions come amid a broader national push for structural reforms and improved economic performance.
Stakeholders said enhanced collaboration with the Bank could help strengthen policy implementation, deepen private sector participation and create sustainable employment opportunities as Nigeria works to unlock long-term growth.