International Finance Corporation (IFC), part of the World Bank Group, has teamed up with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to enhance local currency financing in Nigeria, aiming to unlock over $1 billion in investments across critical sectors of the economy.
Gatekeepers News reports that this announcement was made in a joint press release on Monday, detailing the agreement signed by IFC Managing Director Makhtar Diop and CBN Governor Yemi Cardoso.
The partnership will facilitate naira-based financing for various sectors, including agriculture, infrastructure, housing, energy, small and medium enterprises, as well as youth and creative industries.
The initiative is expected to bolster the growth of private businesses by providing access to long-term, affordable funding in local currency, which is vital for reducing currency-related risks.
The statement read, “IFC, a member of the World Bank Group, and the Central Bank of Nigeria have signed an agreement to increase local currency financing to enable private businesses in Nigeria to grow and thrive.
“The partnership will allow IFC to manage currency risks and increase its investment in Nigerian naira across priority sectors of the economy, including agriculture, housing, infrastructure, energy, small and medium enterprises and the creative and youth economy.
“IFC aims to significantly scale up its financing of critical sectors in Nigeria, with a goal of providing more than $1bn in the coming years. Many of these sectors require local currency financing, and IFC’s partnership with the CBN is a key tool in expanding access.”
The apex bank Governor was quoted in the statement, describing the partnership as a “pioneering initiative” that reflects CBN’s shift towards innovative financing solutions through collaboration with reputable global institutions.
He emphasised that the deal aligns with the Federal Government’s agenda to diversify the economy and catalyse sustainable growth.
Diop also expressed IFC’s commitment to fostering economic growth, stating, “Expanding access to affordable local currency financing for small businesses in Nigeria is essential for IFC to address the increasing demand for diverse funding options and to better manage currency risk.
“Our partnership with the Central Bank of Nigeria will enhance lending in Nigerian naira, fostering economic growth and creating jobs across the country.”
The statement added that with a portfolio of $2.13bn, Nigeria is the second-largest beneficiary of IFC’s financing in Africa.
