The World Bank has removed its latest Nigeria Development Update (NDU) report from its website, days after its initial publication, even as the Washington-based institution moved to clarify its position on petrol importation amid growing backlash.

The report, titled ‘Nigeria’s Tomorrow Must Start Today: The Case for Early Childhood Development’, was released on April 7, 2026. However, as of on Friday , the document was no longer accessible on the Bank’s website, with users encountering a “page not found” error when attempting to download it.

As of the time of filing this report, the World Bank has not provided an official explanation for the removal of the April 2026 edition from its website, raising questions about the circumstances surrounding the decision.

Despite the removal, the accompanying press statement remains available, outlining key aspects of Nigeria’s economic outlook and policy recommendations.

However, in a fresh clarification, the World Bank explained that its recommendation on the importation of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) must be understood within a broader global and domestic context.

It noted that while the report suggested allowing petrol imports, such a move could conflict with ongoing efforts by countries to safeguard energy security amid global supply disruptions.

The institution stressed that Nigeria’s immediate priority should be to strengthen targeted support for vulnerable populations through an effective social safety net system. It added that it stands ready to expand its support in this regard.

The World Bank further emphasised that, over time, transitioning to a competitive retail market for petrol remains a viable policy direction, but cautioned that such a shift must be carefully sequenced to ensure product quality, regulatory standards, and market stability.

It also acknowledged steps taken by the Nigerian government and private sector players to secure fuel supply, describing these efforts as critical to protecting both consumers and businesses.

“In the case of Nigeria, the focus should be to provide targeted support to the most vulnerable people through their well-functioning social safety net system, and the World Bank Group stands ready to step up its existing support.

“Over time, transitioning toward a competitive retail market for Premium Motor Spirit is an important policy direction that requires a well-sequenced implementation strategy that guarantees the quality and standards of all petroleum products.

“The World Bank Group recognises the efforts of the Government of Nigeria and the Nigerian private sector in taking concrete steps to safeguard fuel supply — a foundation that is essential to protect consumers and businesses,” the statement on Friday added.

Before its removal, the report had painted a cautiously optimistic picture of Nigeria’s economy. It noted that the country recorded a 4 per cent growth rate in 2025, while inflation moderated to 15.1 per cent in February 2026, down from 26.3 per cent in the previous year. The improvement was attributed to tighter monetary policy and better food supply conditions.

The biannual publication, which typically assesses Nigeria’s economic and social conditions and offers policy guidance, also indicated that early 2026 economic indicators pointed to sustained growth across sectors, despite mild pressures from global geopolitical tensions. (Arise News)

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