The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to ongoing economic reforms, pledging to strengthen its partnership with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) as it works to stabilise Nigeria’s economy, improve public finances and drive long-term economic growth.
The assurance was given during a farewell dinner in Abuja organised in honour of the outgoing IMF Resident Representative in Nigeria, Dr. Christian Ebeke, whose three-year tenure has come to an end.
According to a statement issued by the Federal Ministry of Finance, government officials praised Ebeke for his contributions to Nigeria’s economic reform agenda and his close collaboration with relevant institutions.
Speaking at the event, the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, described Ebeke as a trusted partner whose technical expertise and professionalism helped deepen cooperation between Nigeria and the IMF during a critical period of economic transition.
“Throughout the reform period, Ebeke remained closely engaged with Nigerian authorities, providing technical support while demonstrating an understanding of the country’s economic realities,” the statement said.
The minister noted that Ebeke played an important role in discussions on fiscal reforms, domestic revenue mobilisation, public debt management, foreign exchange reforms, and other major government priorities.
He also commended the outgoing IMF official for his collaborative approach and willingness to engage stakeholders.
“Rather than prescribing solutions from a distance, he engaged stakeholders with openness, listened carefully to differing perspectives and worked collaboratively in support of Nigeria’s development aspirations,” the statement added.
Also speaking, Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor, Olayemi Cardoso, said Ebeke’s tenure coincided with one of the most significant periods of Nigeria’s economic reform programme.
According to Cardoso, the Federal Government and the CBN have implemented bold policy measures aimed at restoring macroeconomic stability, improving investor confidence and creating a stronger foundation for sustainable economic growth.
He also praised Ebeke for promoting constructive dialogue and strengthening technical cooperation between the IMF and Nigerian authorities.
In his remarks, Dr. Christian Ebeke described his three years in Nigeria as both rewarding and professionally enriching.
“I am leaving Nigeria with profound admiration for the resilience, talent and entrepreneurial spirit of its people,” Ebeke said.
He expressed confidence that with sustained reforms, sound economic policies and continued collaboration among stakeholders, Nigeria is well positioned to achieve inclusive and lasting economic growth.
Ebeke also thanked the Federal Government, the Ministry of Finance, the Central Bank of Nigeria, development partners, the media and his IMF colleagues for their support throughout his assignment.
He added that the relationships he built during his stay in Nigeria would remain memorable and expressed optimism about the country’s future.
