Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO), Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, has praised President Bola Tinubu for his administration’s bold reforms that have stabilized Nigeria’s economy.
Speaking to journalists after a private meeting with the President at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Thursday, she highlighted the importance of these efforts as a cornerstone for sustainable growth.
“The president and his team have worked diligently to stabilize the economy, which is a critical first step before any meaningful improvement can occur,” Okonjo-Iweala stated, adding, “He deserves recognition for steering the economy in the right direction through these reforms.”
However, she emphasized that stabilization is only the beginning.
“The next phase is fostering growth. We need to expand the economy and implement social safety nets to support Nigerians facing the challenges of these reforms,” she noted.
Okonjo-Iweala underscored the urgency of policies that promote inclusive growth, job creation, and poverty alleviation to ensure citizens feel the benefits of economic progress.
She also reaffirmed the WTO’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s economic recovery, signaling stronger collaboration with the Tinubu administration.
According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), the World Bank has echoed this optimism, projecting a 3.6% economic growth for Nigeria in 2025. The bank attributes this positive trajectory to macroeconomic reforms in the petroleum, foreign exchange, and power sectors, which have boosted national revenue and reduced the fiscal deficit, despite persistent inflation challenges.
Okonjo-Iweala’s remarks highlight both the progress made and the work still needed to transform Nigeria’s economy for the benefit of all its citizens.
