Maureen Okpe
The United Kingdom and Nigeria have launched two flagship economic reform programmes aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s macroeconomic stability, boosting fiscal resilience, and accelerating long-term economic growth.
The initiatives; the Nigeria Economic Stability & Transformation (NEST) programme and the Nigeria Public Finance Facility (NPFF), were unveiled by the British High Commission in Abuja backed by a £12.4 million UK investment.
The programmes form a central pillar of the UK-Nigeria mutual growth partnership, designed to support Nigeria’s ongoing economic reform agenda and foster a more competitive environment for private-sector investment.
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Speaking at the launch, Cynthia Rowe, Head of Development Cooperation at the British High Commission, said the programmes is a shared commitment of both countries to strengthening the fundamentals required for sustainable growth.
She emphasised that the initiatives are positioned “at the heart of our economic development cooperation with Nigeria,” reflecting a strong alignment on long-term economic priorities.
The launch followed the inaugural meeting of the Joint UK-Nigeria Steering Committee, which endorsed the strategic approach of both programmes and reaffirmed cooperation between the two countries in delivering their shared economic objectives.
Representing the Nigerian government, Special Adviser to the President on Finance and the Economy, Sanyade Okoli, praised the UK’s support, noting that the programmes arrive at a crucial moment as Nigeria pushes ahead with critical reforms.
She described the collaboration as a demonstration of “our shared commitment to Nigeria’s economic stability and long-term prosperity,” highlighting its value in strengthening fiscal resilience, improving macroeconomic fundamentals, and supporting inclusive economic growth.
According to her, the partnership helps lay the foundation for a more resilient economy capable of delivering sustainable development and improved livelihoods for Nigerians.
British Deputy High Commissioner in Lagos, Jonny Baxter, also stressed the importance of NEST and NPFF within the broader UK-Nigeria mutual growth partnership.
He noted that the programmes focus on building strong economic foundations that are essential for long-term prosperity, reaffirming the UK’s commitment to Nigeria’s reform pathway.
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The event attracted senior officials from key economic and financial institutions, including the Federal Ministry of Finance, Central Bank of Nigeria, Federal Inland Revenue Service, Debt Management Office, Budget Office of the Federation, as well as representatives of international development partners.
The launch signals strengthened bilateral cooperation and a renewed push to support Nigeria’s efforts to stabilise its economy and unlock sustainable growth.