World Bank Projects 4.2% Growth for Nigeria in 2026

The World Bank has stated that Nigeria's economic growth remains on track for the first half of 2026, despite the ongoing war in Iran and rising global energy prices. Fiseha Hail, the World Bank's lead economist for Nigeria, disclosed this information during a presentation in Abuja.

The bank warned that rising fuel costs could persist, potentially eroding income and slowing poverty reduction efforts. This outlook comes amid ongoing economic reforms by the federal government aimed at stabilizing the economy, even as global geopolitical tensions continue to exert pressure on prices.

The World Bank noted that Nigeria's economy has shown resilience, with business activity continuing to expand despite external shocks. Although growth remains intact, inflationary pressures, particularly from rising fuel costs, could undermine recent economic gains.

The World Bank highlighted key macroeconomic trends shaping Nigeria's economic outlook, including inflation dynamics and fiscal performance. The bank projects an economic growth rate of 4.2% for 2026, having upgraded Nigeria's growth estimate to 4.4% in its June 2025 Global Economic Prospect report.