BY CHIKA OKEKE, Abuja
The Federal Government has reiterated its commitment to the implementation of far-reaching reforms aimed at restoring macroeconomic stability, strengthening public finances, improving investor confidence and laying the foundation for sustainable economic growth.
Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Taiwo Oyedele stated this at a dinner organised in honour of the outgoing Resident Representative in Nigeria, Dr. Christian Ebeke on Friday in Abuja.
He promised to deepen the longstanding partnership with the International Monetary Fund, IMF, commending Ebeke for his significant contributions to the country's economic reform programmes.
He stated that Ebeke's tenure coincided with the implementation of economic reforms, describing him as a trusted partner whose professionalism, technical depth and constructive engagement helped strengthen cooperation between Nigeria and the IMF during a critical period of economic transition.
The Minister disclosed that throughout the period, the outgoing IMF Resident Representative remained closely engaged with Nigerian authorities, providing valuable technical support while demonstrating a deep appreciation of the country's unique economic realities.
He maintained that Ebeke made significant contributions to policy discussions on fiscal reforms, domestic revenue mobilisation, public debt management, foreign exchange reforms and other strategic priorities of the government, just as he recognised that his commitment to dialogue, mutual respect and practical problem- solving strengthened the longstanding relationship between Nigeria and the IMF.
The Minister observed that beyond his professional responsibilities, Ebeke distinguished himself through his humility, accessibility and ability to build confidence across institutions.
Rather than prescribing solutions from a distance, Oyedele stated that Ebeke engaged stakeholders with openness, listened carefully to differing perspectives and worked collaboratively in support of Nigeria's development aspirations.
The Minister thanked Ebeke for his friendship, dedication and invaluable service to Nigeria, adding that the relationships built during his assignment would continue to strengthen cooperation between the Federal Government and the International Monetary Fund.
He wished him and his family continued success, good health and fulfilment as he proceeds to his next assignment.
The Director, International Economics Relations Department, IER, Stanley George was optimistic that Ebeke's tenure would be remembered for its professionalism, constructive engagement and steadfast support for Nigeria's economic reform efforts.
He pointed out that the partnership between Nigeria and the IMF had grown stronger through sustained dialogue, mutual respect and shared commitment to the country's economic progress.
The Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, Mr. Yemi Cardoso stated that Ebeke's tenure coincided with a defining period in Nigeria's economic reform journey, during which the Federal Government and the Central Bank implemented bold policy measures to restore macroeconomic stability, strengthen policy credibility, improve market confidence and lay a firmer foundation for sustainable growth.
He praised the outgoing IMF Resident Representative for promoting constructive dialogue, facilitating technical cooperation and bringing professionalism, objectivity and a practical understanding of Nigeria's economic realities to every engagement.
The Governor was confident that the strong collaboration between Nigeria and the IMF would continue under Ebeke's successor.
Outgoing IMF Resident Representative described his three-year assignment in Nigeria as both a privilege and a professionally enriching experience.
He noted that serving as the IMF Resident Representative provided him the opportunity to engage with government officials, development partners, private sector, academia and other stakeholders committed to Nigeria's economic development, describing the experience as one he would always cherish.
Ebeke assured that he would leave Nigeria with profound admiration for the resilience, talent and entrepreneurial spirit of its people, adding that with sustained reforms, sound economic policies and continued collaboration among stakeholders, Nigeria is well positioned to achieve inclusive and durable economic growth.
He appreciated the Federal Government, Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, officials across government institutions, development partners, members of the media and his colleagues at the International Monetary Fund for their friendship, cooperation and support throughout his assignment.
He added that the cordial relationship between the IMF and the Federal Government strengthened the longstanding partnership dedicated to advancing the country's reform agenda and sustainable development.
Reflecting on his time in Nigeria, Ebeke informed that the relationships he built and the memories he created would remain with him long after his departure, saying that he looked forward to following Nigeria's progress and remaining a friend of the country in the years ahead.
The evening concluded with renewed appreciation for the enduring partnership between Nigeria and the International Monetary Fund and a shared commitment to sustaining the collaboration that has supported the country's ongoing fiscal and macroeconomic reforms.
Customs sets ambitious target on trade facilitation, strategic communication
By Chika Okeke
The Nigeria Customs Service, NCS, has set an ambitious target on trade facilitation and strategic communication, aimed at repositioning the Service to implement its mandate and support the successful implementation of its reforms.
Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi stated this at the closing ceremony of the 2026 Nigeria Customs Service Public Relations Conference in Port Harcourt, Rivers State over the weekend,
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