FG Disputes World Bank Figures on Nigeria’s Interest Payments

According to reports by Punch on Monday October 19 2026 the Federal Government has rejected the World Bank’s assessment that interest payments reached N7.7 trillion in the first half of 2026, describing the figures used to evaluate debt sustainability as misleading.

Officials argued that the methodology and data applied by the World Bank do not accurately reflect Nigeria’s current fiscal position. The government maintained that revenue growth is outpacing interest costs and that ongoing reforms are strengthening public finances.

The disagreement forms part of a broader exchange over the interpretation of Nigeria’s debt metrics and the impact of recent economic policies. Finance authorities have pointed to improved revenue performance and measures aimed at enhancing fiscal resilience.

The development comes as Nigeria continues to engage with international financial institutions on economic outlook and policy priorities. Stakeholders will monitor further clarifications from both the government and the World Bank as discussions on debt sustainability and reform outcomes progress.

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