The World Bank has clarified that Anambra State was not excluded from its HOPE-Governance Programme, stating that the state did not express interest in participating in the initiative.
The clarification follows media reports claiming that Anambra was denied access to the World Bank-supported programme after allegedly failing to meet performance benchmarks.
In its Implementation Status & Results Report on the Nigeria HOPE-Governance Programme (P181476), dated July 7, 2025, the World Bank stated: “Thirty-five states and the Federal Capital Territory have expressed interest in participating in the Programme. Anambra State did not express interest to participate in the Programme.”
Responding to the reports, the Chief Press Secretary to the Anambra State Governor, Christian Aburime, stated that the World Bank report did not indicate that the state had been disqualified or failed to meet any eligibility criteria.
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According to Aburime, Anambra’s non-participation was a deliberate administrative decision based on the state’s development priorities and fiscal considerations, rather than a sanction or an assessment of its performance.
“The report makes no mention of disqualification or failed benchmarks. It only indicates that interested states engaged with the World Bank for guidance,” he said.
Aburime added that the state government is concluding due diligence and holding discussions with the World Bank on future collaborations.
He said Anambra remains committed to participating in development programmes that align with its strategic priorities.
“The state will not fail to participate in any progressive programme or policy that aligns with our priorities, now or in the future,” the statement said.
The state government also urged media organisations and the public to verify information before publication or dissemination, warning against reports it described as misleading regarding Anambra’s relationship with the World Bank.
