World Bank and Sectoral Reforms in Nigeria, 1999-2007

The Neo-liberal framework of World Bank inspired economic reforms in Nigeria has ensured that Nigeria adopts a comprehensive approach to the implementation of National Economic Empowerment and Development Strategies (NEEDS), rather than gradualist approach thereby, (a) necessitating increased World Bank development aids/assistance to Nigeria, (b) making it possible for NEEDS to meet its set out targets, and (c) growing Nigerian economy to an unprecedented level. The core of our argument, therefore, is that NEEDS should have a human face through incorporation of humanistic approach to the implementation of the reforms. We have demonstrated, however, that comprehensive and humanistic approaches are not necessarily mutually exclusive for they can be mutually inclusive and reinforcing as regards to implementation of NEEDS in Nigeria.This study focused on the role of World Bank in public and private sector reforms in Nigeria between 1999 and 2007.