IMF boss Lagarde in Nigeria to meet Buhari over economy and low crude oil price

President Muhammadu Buhari will on Tuesday hold talks with the managing director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), Christine Lagarde, with a focus on the state of the Nigerian economy and the dwindling price of crude oil.

Ms Christine Lagarde; credit: dailytrust.com.ng

The IMF in a press release on Monday said Lagarde would meet with President Buhari and “other senior leaders, along with business leaders, prominent women, and representatives of civil society.” She is also scheduled to hold a meeting with members of the National Assembly.

Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Mr Godwin Emefiele and minister for finance, Mrs Kemi Adeosun are believed to be among other senior officials of government the IMF leader will be meeting. “I look forward to productive meetings as they address important economic challenges, most importantly the impact of low oil prices,” Lagarde said.

According to the IMF, the visit to Nigeria will also provide an opportunity to strengthen the Fund’s partnership with the largest economy in sub-Saharan Africa.

The IMF boss is also quoted to have said “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.”

Ms Lagarde will also visit Nigeria’s neighbouring country, Cameroon where she is scheduled to meet President Paul Biya and other senior members of government.

Story: IMF Press Release