Anambra Excluded from World Bank's HOPE Governance Scheme

The administration of Governor Chukwuma Soludo in Anambra State faced criticism following the announcement of the World Bank-supported Human Capital Opportunities for Prosperity and Equity–Governance (HOPE-GOV) Programme, which offers $27 million in incentives to states rated high in performance. The programme, managed by the Federal Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, aims to enhance financial and human resource management in basic education and primary healthcare.

During a retreat in Abuja, Dr. Assad Hassan, the National Coordinator of the HOPE Governance Program, explained that disbursement eligibility was based on findings from the Interim Independent Verification Agent.

Anambra, along with Ebonyi, was notably absent from the list of beneficiaries, while Enugu, Imo, and Abia were included. The criteria for disbursement linked results (DLRs) included deadlines for budget submissions and publication of financial results.

The exclusion of Anambra has led to significant public discourse regarding the state's governance performance.