At the 2025 EBRD Annual Meetings in London, Nigeria was formally admitted as a full member of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), unlocking private-sector financing, technical expertise, and partnership opportunities. Led by Finance Minister Wale Edun, Nigeria’s accession aligns with President Tinubu’s economic reform agenda, promising expanded support for entrepreneurship, infrastructure, green transition, and digital innovation. This landmark move places Nigeria among Benin and Côte d’Ivoire as the first Sub-Saharan African members, setting the stage for accelerated inclusive growth and stronger global economic ties.
A Proud Milestone in London
Nigeria’s official entry into the EBRD was sealed at the Bank’s 2025 Annual Meetings in London, where over 70 economies convened under the banner “Expanding Horizons, Enduring Strengths”. Coordinating Minister of the Economy and Finance Minister Wale Edun led a high-level delegation, describing membership as a “critical milestone” in Nigeria’s economic reform journey and a key plank of the Renewed Hope Agenda.
Why EBRD Membership Matters
- Private Sector Focus: More than 80% of EBRD funding backs businesses—small, medium, and large—fueling entrepreneurship, job creation, and innovation.
- New Financing Channels: Nigerian MSMEs will gain access to development finance instruments previously out of reach, from local-currency loans to equity investments.
- Technical Expertise: Beyond capital, the EBRD will share best practices in corporate governance, environmental standards, and digital transformation.
Priority Sectors for Collaboration
- Energy Transition & Sustainability: Supporting Nigeria’s shift to cleaner power and lower emissions, in line with EBRD’s green mandate.
- Infrastructure Development: Financing roads, ports, and urban projects to bolster trade and connectivity.
- Agriculture & Food Security: Modernizing supply chains and boosting productivity in Nigeria’s vital farm sector.
- Digital Innovation: Scaling fintech platforms and broadband networks to extend financial services across urban and rural communities.
Strengthening Global Partnerships
During the London visits, Minister Edun held bilateral talks with French and U.S. counterparts, signaling Nigeria’s eagerness to deepen ties with key development partners. These dialogues pave the way for co-financing arrangements, knowledge exchanges, and joint initiatives.
From Treaty Amendment to Impact
Nigeria’s accession follows a treaty amendment approved in 2023 and now ratified, enabling the EBRD’s expansion into Sub-Saharan Africa alongside Benin and Côte d’Ivoire. With investments slated to commence after the amendment’s enforcement in July 2025, the Bank stands ready to deploy its €200 billion portfolio in new markets.
As Nigeria embarks on this fresh chapter, the government and private sector alike will harness EBRD resources to drive sustainable growth, foster inclusion, and enhance resilience. Membership underscores Nigeria’s growing influence in global economic governance and its commitment to building a transparent, rules-based economy.