….Reaffirms Commitment To Partnership With Fund
The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to deepening its longstanding partnership with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and commended the Fund’s outgoing Resident Representative in Nigeria, Dr. Christian Ebeke, for his significant contributions to the country’s economic reform efforts.
The commitment was reaffirmed at a farewell dinner held in Abuja in honour of the envoy during which the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Taiwo Oyedele, described him as a trusted partner whose professionalism, technical depth and constructive engagement helped strengthen cooperation between Nigeria and the Fund during a critical period of the nation’s economic transition.
The minister noted that Ebeke’s tenure coincided with 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.
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Oyedele recalled that throughout that 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.
According to the minister, Ebeke has made significant contributions to policy discussions on fiscal reforms, domestic revenue mobilisation, public debt management, foreign exchange reforms and other strategic priorities of government, noting that his commitment to dialogue, mutual respect and practical problem solving will further strengthen the longstanding relationship between Nigeria and the IMF.
Oyedele 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, he engaged stakeholders with openness, listened carefully to differing perspectives and worked collaboratively in support of Nigeria’s development aspirations.
The Minister thanked the outgoing IMF chief for his friendship, dedication and invaluable service to Nigeria, noting 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.
In his remarks, Director, International Economics Relations Department (IER), Stanley George, said Ebeke’s tenure would be remembered for its professionalism, constructive engagement and steadfast support for Nigeria’s economic reform efforts, noting that the partnership between Nigeria and the IMF has waxed stronger through sustained dialogue, mutual respect and shared commitment to the country’s economic progress and that Ebeke’s contributions would leave a lasting impact on the relationship between both institutions.
In a goodwill message, the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Mr. Yemi Cardoso, said Dr. 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 commended 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 expressed confidence that the strong collaboration between Nigeria and the IMF would continue under Dr. Ebeke’s successor.
Responding to the tributes, Dr. Christian Ebeke described his three year assignment in Nigeria as both a privilege and a professionally enriching experience. He said serving as the IMF Resident Representative gave him the opportunity to engage with government officials, development partners, the private sector, academia and other stakeholders committed to Nigeria’s economic development, describing the experience as one he would always cherish.
The finance expert said he was leaving Nigeria with profound admiration for the resilience, talent and entrepreneurial spirit of its people. He expressed confidence that, with sustained reforms, sound economic policies and continued collaboration among stakeholders, Nigeria is well positioned to achieve inclusive and durable economic growth.
He thanked the Federal Government, the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, MDAs’ officials, development partners, journalists and his colleagues at the Fund for their friendship, cooperation and support throughout his assignment.
He added that the cordial relationship between the IMF and Nigerian authorities had further strengthened the longstanding partnership dedicated to advancing the country’s reform agenda and sustainable development.
Reflecting on his tenure in Nigeria, Ebeke said the relationships he built and the memories created would remain with him long after his exit adding that he looks forward to monitoring Nigeria’s progress and remaining a friend of the country in the years ahead.
The farewell dinner was attended by top government officials, including the Director General of the Debt Management Office, Mrs. Patience Oniha; the Statistician General of the Federation, Prince Adeyemi Adeniran; chief executives of government agencies; representatives of development partners and the diplomatic community; senior officials of the Federal Ministry of Finance; and other distinguished guests, all of whom joined in celebrating Ebeke’s remarkable service and enduring contribution to Nigeria’s economic reform journey.
Photo Caption
R–L: Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Taiwo Oyedele, presenting a commemorative plaque to the outgoing International Monetary Fund (IMF) Resident Representative to Nigeria, Dr. Christian Ebeke, during a dinner held in the envoy’s honour in Abuja
