Country Director of the World Bank, Matthew Verghis, says Nigeria remains one of the institution’s largest portfolios globally, with about 70% of its projects now implemented by state governments.
Verghis said this during a visit to Nasarawa State Governor, Abdullahi Sule at the Government House in Lafia. He explained that the decentralised model of World Bank’s intervention has improved project delivery as states take greater ownership of development initiatives.
He also emphasised a new direction focused on leveraging World Bank’s financing to attract private investment, particularly in infrastructure projects such as mini-grid electricity.
The Lead Agricultural Economist at the World Bank, Hardwick Tchale, presented a new agricultural programme aimed at strengthening value chains and improving productivity among smallholder farmers.
The initiative will focus on key crops which include maize, rice, soyabean, and cassava, while allowing states to prioritise based on their comparative advantages.
Governor Sule commended the World Bank for its continued partnership and for recognising Nasarawa State as a top-performing partner.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to transparency and sustainability, while highlighting progress in agriculture and support for outgrower schemes.
The World Bank and Nasarawa State Government reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening collaboration and ensuring effective implementation of development projects in the State.
(Editor: Terverr Tyav)
