The Federal Government of Nigeria is intensifying efforts to ensure that all 36 states meet the requirements needed to access a $500 million (about N692 billion) funding facility under the World Bank-supported HOPE Governance Programme.

The initiative is designed to improve service delivery in basic education and primary healthcare across the country by strengthening governance systems and ensuring that public funds are effectively utilized. The programme is backed by the World Bank as part of its support for Nigeria’s social sector reforms.

Speaking in Abuja, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, Deborah O. N. Odoh, disclosed that the government is working to ensure all states sign the required Subsidiary Loan Agreement to access the funds.

She explained that the ministry is collaborating with the Federal Ministry of Finance to accelerate the process and help states meet the necessary conditions. According to her, timelines have already been set to ensure quick implementation of the programme.

Odoh also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to providing institutional support that will ensure the programme delivers meaningful results, particularly in improving the quality of education and healthcare services nationwide.

The Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, is also actively involved in coordinating efforts to fast-track the initiative.

Officials from the World Bank emphasized the importance of timely action, noting that delays in implementation could affect the disbursement of funds. They stressed that improving governance remains key to addressing long-standing challenges in both the education and healthcare sectors.

According to stakeholders, weak governance structures have significantly hindered effective service delivery in these sectors. The HOPE Governance Programme therefore focuses on strengthening transparency, accountability, and efficiency to ensure better outcomes for citizens.

The National Coordinator of the programme, Assad Hassan, stated that ongoing engagements with stakeholders are aimed at reviewing progress, addressing challenges, and ensuring smooth implementation.

The HOPE Governance Programme, domiciled in the Federal Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, is expected to play a major role in transforming Nigeria’s basic education and primary healthcare systems by ensuring that resources translate into tangible improvements in service delivery.