The Federal Government and the World Bank have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s social protection systems and widening economic opportunities for vulnerable citizens, as state-level investments linked to the bank’s $750 million support for NG-CARES have now surpassed $2.2 billion.
The assurance came during the first official visit of the World Bank’s Regional Manager for Social Protection and Labour for West and Central Africa, Mr. Robert Chase, to the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, in Abuja yesterday.
Bagudu said Nigeria’s reform efforts and social programmes continue to receive robust technical and financial backing from the bank. He noted that the Constitution provides a clear mandate for federal, state, and local governments to pursue shared objectives that advance social welfare and inclusive development.
The minister stressed the need for improved coordination among government agencies implementing programmes such as NG-CARES, the Nigeria for Women Project, and the HOPE Agenda. According to him, stronger ward-level structures are essential to avoid duplication and ensure interventions reach communities that need them most.
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Bagudu said widespread poverty persists not because Nigerians lack enterprise, but because their economic returns remain low. He called for scaled-up interventions to boost livelihoods, build resilience, and expand opportunities, especially in communities affected by displacement and multidimensional poverty.
“Mr President has challenged us to translate these reforms into measurable improvements in people’s lives. Our goal is to lift millions out of poverty by 2030 through coordinated programmes, strengthened efficiency, and expanded financing,” he said.
Permanent Secretary Dr. Deborah Odoh described the World Bank as a consistent partner in Nigeria’s reform journey, expressing optimism that ongoing programmes will deliver meaningful social impact. She assured that the government remains committed to deploying resources toward a more inclusive and resilient economy.
Chase commended Nigeria’s leadership in rolling out large-scale social protection initiatives. He noted that the NG-CARES programme has continued to attract significant state-level investments, and said its next phase will expand cash transfers, identification systems, and livelihood support under the World Bank’s Country Partnership Framework.
