By Ahmed Ahmed
The federal government has reaffirmed its commitment to honouring financial obligations and deepening partnerships with the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB), despite prevailing fiscal constraints.
Speaking at a recent meeting with an IsDB delegation in Abuja, Honourable Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, described the bank as a “steadfast ally” in Nigeria’s development journey since 2005.
Partnership Anchored on Mutual Trust
“Your visit marks a significant moment in our shared journey of partnership, progress, and purpose,” Mr. Edun said. “Despite fiscal constraints, Nigeria has continued to honour its obligations, and we deeply value the Bank’s flexibility in aligning with our realities.”
The Honourable Minister commended the success of IsDB interventions in education, healthcare, infrastructure, agriculture, and innovation, calling them “lifelines for communities, engines of growth, and symbols of hope.”
He also underscored the synergy between Nigeria’s ongoing economic reforms under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the IsDB’s 2026 – 2035 Strategic Framework, which targets long-term development across member states.
Infrastructure Remains a Top Priority
During the meeting, Honourable Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, represented by Mr. Mohammed Bello Goronyo, Honourable Minister of State for Works, highlighted the administration’s focus on road infrastructure under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
He cited the Ilela – Lagos – Sokoto – Badagry economic corridor as a strategic lifeline that will link Nigeria to the Niger Republic and other African markets. “This corridor is a vital economic artery that will boost trade, create jobs, and lift communities out of poverty,” he said.
Strengthening Development Bonds
Also present was Honourable Minister of State for Finance, Dr. Doris Nkiruka Uzoka-Anite, who commended the depth of engagement achieved during the meeting, noting it as a reflection of the shared commitment to fast-track transformative development projects.
With Nigeria working to balance its reform agenda and debt sustainability, the government’s assurance to partners like IsDB signals a continued focus on leveraging multilateral relationships to deliver priority infrastructure and social impact projects across the country.
