The Federal Government is set to secure $2.2 billion in new loans from the World Bank in 2025 to finance six major projects aimed at strengthening economic resilience, education, health, and digital infrastructure. The funding, spread across different sectors, reflects Nigeria’s push for long-term development despite rising concerns over debt sustainability.
According to the World Bank’s financing plan, the first approval is expected by March 17, when $500 million will be allocated to the Community Action for Resilience and Economic Stimulus Programme. By March 31, an additional $552 million will go toward HOPE for Quality Basic Education for All, while Accelerating Nutrition Results in Nigeria 2.0 will receive $800 million.
Later in the year, $300 million each will be directed toward the Solutions for the Internally Displaced and Host Communities Project on July 15 and the Health Security Program on August 19. The final tranche of $500 million will support the Building Resilient Digital Infrastructure for Growth (BRIDGE) initiative, scheduled for approval by September 15.
The World Bank confirmed that while the BRIDGE and Health Security Program are still in the concept review stage, negotiations have progressed for the education and nutrition projects. These loans come as part of Nigeria’s ongoing collaboration with global lenders to address pressing economic and social challenges.
Nigeria has remained one of the largest beneficiaries of World Bank funding in Africa. In 2024 alone, the country secured $1.5 billion for various development initiatives, pushing its total exposure under the International Development Association (IDA) to $17.1 billion as of September 30. By the end of the year, this figure slightly declined to $16.8 billion, yet Nigeria remains the IDA’s third-largest borrower.
Despite concerns over growing debt levels, the government insists that borrowing remains necessary to sustain critical infrastructure and social programs. The World Bank spokesperson noted that Nigeria continues to prioritize investments in resilience, education, health, and digital infrastructure to drive long-term economic stability.
However, analysts caution that without improved revenue generation and fiscal discipline, rising debt obligations could pose risks to economic growth. The government has defended its borrowing strategy, emphasizing that the funds are being channeled into productive sectors that will yield long-term benefits.
As Nigeria moves forward with these loan-backed projects, stakeholders will be watching closely to assess their impact on economic development, poverty reduction, and the overall well-being of its citizens
