The World Bank has approved a $1.08 billion loan to help Nigeria improve its education, nutrition, and economic stability. This funding will support underserved communities, aiming to improve education, expand nutrition services, and help vulnerable households cope with economic challenges.

The funds are mainly for the NG-CARES Programme, which started to address the economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The program has already helped over 15 million people by providing food security, grants, and livelihood support. With the new funding, the programme will expand its reach to assist communities dealing with the 2023 fuel subsidy removal and foreign exchange rate changes.

The approved financing includes:
    •    $500 million for additional funding under the Community Action for Resilience and Economic Stimulus (NG-CARES) Programme
    •    $80 million for the Accelerating Nutrition Results in Nigeria (ANRIN 2.0) initiative
    •    $500 million for the Hope for Quality Basic Education for All (HOPE-EDU) project

This initiative also focuses on offering social transfers, public works, livelihood grants, and small-business support. It is designed to be a safety net during times of crisis, helping those in need.

The Accelerating Nutrition Results in Nigeria (ANRIN 2.0) programme will enhance maternal and child nutrition by improving access to quality nutrition services. It specifically targets:
    •    Pregnant women
    •    Lactating mothers
    •    Adolescent girls
    •    Children under five

Additionally, the funding will help tackle overcrowded schools and improve the allocation of education resources. The Global Partnership for Education Fund will also contribute $52.18 million to the HOPE-EDU program, which aims to enhance education in Nigeria.

The programme is aligned with Nigeria’s National Development Plan (2021-2025) and the country’s plan for better food and nutrition. It has already helped millions of children between 2018 and 2024 by improving nutrition and feeding practices.

The HOPE-EDU project aims to strengthen Nigeria’s basic education system by:
    •    Improving foundational literacy and numeracy
    •    Increasing access to quality education
    •    Strengthening education management systems

The initiative is expected to benefit:
    •    29 million public primary school pupils
    •    500,000 teachers
    •    65,000+ public primary schools