World Bank to assist Nigeria phase out Mfuel subsidies
The President of the World Bank Group, David Malpass has announced plans to support Nigeria in phasing out regressive fuel subsidies while boosting social assistance for the poor and vulnerable.
This came in a statement recently published on the Bank’s website following a meeting between Malpass and Vice President Yemi Osinbajo of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Malpass also emphasized the need for a unified exchange rate in Nigeria, which would considerably enhance the business-enabling environment in Nigeria, attract foreign direct investment, and reduce inflation.
The statement reads “President Malpass emphasized the importance of integrating climate and development, as well as the need for an enabling policy and regulatory environment alongside strengthened institutions in the energy sector. President Malpass affirmed to Vice President Osinbajo the WBG’s readiness to support Nigeria in phasing out regressive fuel subsidies, while increasing social assistance for the poor and vulnerable.”
President Malpass and Vice President Osinbajo discussed Nigeria’s Energy Transition Plan. Malpass also welcomed Nigeria’s commitment to achieving universal energy access and reducing GHG emissions while maintaining reliable baseload.
President Malpass prompted a decisive move toward exchange rate unification and stabilization by Nigeria, highlighting the economic benefits for the Nigerian people.
“President Malpass emphasized to Vice President Osinbajo that a unified exchange rate will significantly improve the business enabling environment in Nigeria, attract foreign direct investment, and reduce inflation. President Malpass and Vice President Osinbajo also discussed the importance of increasing domestic revenues through broadening Nigeria’s tax base and increasing the efficiency of tax administration,“ the statement added.
