ABSTRACT
The African Development Bank (AfDB) was established in 1964 with the primary objective of promoting sustainable economic growth and social progress across the African continent. Initially founded by 23 countries, the bank’s membership has grown to include 54 African countries and 27 Non-African countries. Over the years, the AfDB has evolved into a prominent multilateral development finance institution, playing a crucial role in addressing Africa’s developmental challenges through strategic investments and policy guidance. Nigeria has been a founding member of the AfDB since its inception in 1964. As one of the largest economies in Africa, Nigeria has maintained a strong relationship with the bank, benefiting from its funding and technical assistance programs. The AfDB has been a significant partner in Nigeria’s development effort, supporting projects across various sectors, including infrastructure, agriculture, private sector development and social services. Over the past decades, the AfDB’s intervention in Nigeria has undergone a strategic shift, aligning with the country’s developmental priorities and the bank’s high 5 strategic agenda. The bank’s priorities in Nigeria have focused on enhancing infrastructure development, promoting agricultural transformation, facilitating private sector growth, and improving access to basic services such as healthcare and education. AfDB, has committed substantial financial resources to support Nigeria’s development agenda from 2010 to 2023. The bank’s investments have spanned across various sectors including transportation, energy, water and sanitation, agriculture, and social infrastructure, flagship projects funded by the AfDB in Nigeria include the Abuja-Kaduna-Kano road reconstruction and rehabilitation project. The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) transmission lines rehabilitation project and the Zaria water supply and sanitation project.
