World Bank to Launch Capital Markets Initiative in Nigeria

The World Bank plans to introduce its Joint Capital Markets Programme (J-CAP) in Nigeria to strengthen the country’s capital market and boost funding for key sectors like infrastructure, housing, and agriculture.
During a meeting with the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC) in Abuja, Patricia Canziani of the International Finance Corporation (IFC) highlighted the potential for international investors and the need to develop new financial products. ICRC Director-General Jobson Ewalefoh emphasized the importance of alternative financing options for infrastructure projects, stressing the need to unlock capital market opportunities. Both parties acknowledged the viability of investment in Nigeria but noted challenges such as investor risks and limited awareness of opportunities. The World Bank was urged to support Nigerian agencies with funding and capacity development to enhance project pipelines and attract investors.