The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining its partnership with the International Monetary Fund as it pursues ongoing fiscal and macroeconomic reforms aimed at restoring economic stability, strengthening public finances and supporting long-term growth.
The commitment was made at a farewell dinner in Abuja held in honour of the outgoing IMF Resident Representative in Nigeria, Dr Christian Ebeke, according to a statement signed on Sunday by the Head of Information and Public Relations at the Federal Ministry of Finance, Efe Ovuakporie.
Speaking at the event, the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Taiwo Oyedele, described Ebeke as “a trusted partner whose professionalism, technical depth and constructive engagement helped strengthen cooperation between Nigeria and the IMF during a critical period of economic transition.”
The minister said the IMF official’s three-year tenure coincided with the implementation of major economic reforms designed to restore macroeconomic stability, strengthen government finances, improve investor confidence and lay the foundation for sustainable economic growth.
According to the statement, Oyedele said that throughout the reform period, Ebeke remained closely engaged with Nigerian authorities, providing technical support while demonstrating an understanding of the country’s economic realities.
He said the outgoing IMF representative contributed significantly to discussions on fiscal reforms, domestic revenue mobilisation, public debt management, foreign exchange reforms and other key government priorities.
The statement added, “ He added that his commitment to dialogue, mutual respect and practical problem-solving further strengthened the longstanding relationship between Nigeria and the IMF.”
Oyedele also praised Ebeke’s personal qualities, saying he 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 statement noted.
The minister thanked the outgoing IMF official for his service to Nigeria, expressing confidence that the relationships built during his assignment would continue to strengthen cooperation between the Federal Government and the IMF.
Also speaking, the Director of the International Economic Relations Department at the Ministry of Finance, Stanley George, said Ebeke’s tenure would be remembered for “its professionalism, constructive engagement and steadfast support for Nigeria’s economic reform efforts.”
George noted that the partnership between Nigeria and the IMF had grown stronger through sustained dialogue, mutual respect and a shared commitment to Nigeria’s economic progress, adding that Ebeke’s contributions would leave a lasting impact on relations between both institutions.