Nigeria Courts Global Investors at Davos Amid Emerging Market Challenges

Nigeria is stepping onto the global stage at this year’s World Economic Forum in Davos to attract international investors, even as capital flows to emerging markets slow amid geopolitical uncertainties. Vice President Kashim Shettima will lead the delegation, joined by Finance Minister Wale Edun, who will attend as a VIP participant. The government aims to present Nigeria as a stable, reform-minded economy ready to engage investors and global policymakers.

The forum’s theme, The Spirit of Dialogue, aligns with Nigeria’s strategy of pairing macroeconomic reforms with active engagement. According to the finance ministry, Nigeria’s goal is to demonstrate that reforms initiated since May 2023—such as floating the currency and removing fuel subsidies—are stabilizing the economy and strengthening fiscal foundations. “At a time of heightened uncertainty, the world is looking to Nigeria as a pillar of economic stability in Africa,” the ministry stated.

Nigeria’s message in Davos is clear: maintain macroeconomic discipline, protect the independence of the Central Bank, and sustain policy credibility. Officials emphasize that the country will report on measurable progress rather than make new promises, citing moderating inflation, improved growth performance, stronger external reserves, and the removal from major global financial grey lists as evidence of reform success.

Finance Minister Edun will meet with investors, development finance institutions, rating agencies, and multinational companies to address concerns over policy consistency, exchange-rate stability, and fiscal sustainability. The government hopes these conversations will turn prior investment discussions in energy, infrastructure, technology, and agriculture into concrete projects, reflecting a shift from promotion to execution in Nigeria’s investment strategy.

Global pressures, from tightening capital flows to uneven climate finance and rapid technological change, frame Nigeria’s reform agenda. The country is focusing on private-sector-led growth, revenue mobilization, and institutional credibility, positioning macroeconomic stability as a foundation for inclusive development. Through its Davos engagement, Nigeria is sending a strong signal that it intends to remain a reliable partner for investors in Africa’s largest economy.

source: Business day