About 139 million Nigerians are currently living in poverty, according to the World Bank.
The global lender, however, noted that Nigeria’s economy has begun to show signs of stability as a result of ongoing reforms.
Speaking at the launch of the Nigeria Development Update (NDU) report in Abuja on Wednesday, the World Bank Country Director for Nigeria, Mathew Verghis, commended the Federal Government for implementing bold economic reforms but warned that the benefits are yet to reach most citizens.
“Over the last two years, Nigeria has tremendously implemented bold reforms — notably around the exchange rate and petrol subsidy,” Verghis said. “These policies have laid the foundation for transforming Nigeria’s economic trajectory for decades to come.”
He noted that the reforms are beginning to yield positive macroeconomic outcomes, including rising revenues, improving debt indicators, stabilising the foreign exchange market, growing reserves, and a gradual decline in inflation.
“Growth has picked up, revenues have risen, debt indicators are improving, the FX market is stabilising, reserves are rising, and inflation is finally beginning to come down. These are big achievements, and many countries would envy them,” he added.
Despite these gains, the World Bank warned that millions of Nigerians are yet to feel tangible improvements in their living conditions.
“In 2025, we estimate that 139 million Nigerians live in poverty,” Verghis disclosed. “The challenge is clear: how to translate the gains from the reforms into better living standards for all.”
The latest NDU report, titled “From Policy to People: Bringing the Reform Gains Home,” outlines a three-point strategy to help Nigeria bridge the gap between economic stability and social welfare — taming inflation, improving public spending efficiency, and expanding social safety nets.
Verghis emphasised that food inflation remains one of the biggest threats to reform success and public confidence.
“Food inflation affects everybody, but particularly the poor, and it has the potential to undermine political support for reforms,” he cautioned. “Tight monetary policy is important, but it must be complemented by structural reforms to address deep-seated supply and market constraints.”
He further stressed the need for efficient resource utilisation and inclusive programmes that cushion the impact of economic adjustments.
“These are not abstract ideas — they are practical steps that can turn macro-stability into better livelihoods,” Verghis said.
The World Bank, he added, remains committed to supporting Nigeria through policy advice, technical assistance, and financing to ensure that the gains of reform “reach every household, not just the headlines.”