The Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), Ms. Christine Lagarde, arrived Nigeria Monday, January 4, 2015 to begin a four-day visit during which she will meet with President Muhammadu Buhari.
During the visit, which is the first by the IMF Managing Director to any country this year, Ms. Lagarde will also hold discussions with the Minister of Finance, Mrs. Kemi Adeosun, and the Central Bank Governor, Mr. Godwin Emefiele, both of who were at the Presidential Wing of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport to receive her.
While in Abuja, Ms. Lagarde is also expected to meet with principal officers of the National Assembly, business leaders, prominent women, and representatives of civil society.
A statement issued by the IMF said the visit to Nigeria would provide an opportunity to strengthen the Fund’s partnership with the largest economy in sub-Saharan Africa.
The statement quoted Ms. Lagarde as saying she looked forward to productive meetings with President Buhari and his colleagues as they address important economic challenges, most importantly the impact of low oil prices.
Continuing, the statement further quoted the IMF Boss as saying: “Nigeria is working hard to improve its business environment, promote opportunities for growth in the private sector, and strengthen social cohesion, all areas where the government has an important role to play.”
