FG Celebrates IMF’s Christian Ebeke, Pledges Stronger Economic Cooperation
The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening its longstanding partnership with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) while honouring the Fund’s outgoing Resident Representative in Nigeria, Dr. Christian Ebeke, for his contributions to the country’s economic reform efforts.
At a farewell dinner held in Abuja, the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Taiwo Oyedele, described Dr. Ebeke as a trusted partner whose professionalism, technical expertise and constructive engagement helped deepen cooperation between Nigeria and the IMF during a critical period of economic transition.
Oyedele noted that Dr. Ebeke’s tenure coincided with the implementation of major economic reforms aimed at restoring macroeconomic stability, strengthening public finances, improving investor confidence and laying the foundation for sustainable economic growth.
According to the minister, the outgoing IMF Resident Representative played a key role in policy discussions on fiscal reforms, domestic revenue mobilisation, public debt management, foreign exchange reforms and other strategic government priorities.
He praised Dr. Ebeke’s collaborative approach, saying he consistently engaged stakeholders with openness, listened to diverse perspectives and supported Nigeria’s development aspirations rather than prescribing solutions from afar.
The minister thanked Dr. Ebeke for his dedication, friendship and valuable service, expressing confidence that the strong relationship between Nigeria and the IMF would continue to grow. He wished him and his family success and good health in his next assignment.
Also speaking, Director of the International Economic Relations Department, Mr. Stanley George, said Dr. Ebeke’s tenure would be remembered for its professionalism, constructive engagement and unwavering support for Nigeria’s economic reforms. He added that the partnership between Nigeria and the IMF had become stronger through sustained dialogue and mutual respect.
Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Mr. Yemi Cardoso, said Dr. Ebeke served during a defining period in Nigeria’s economic reform journey, when the Federal Government and the CBN implemented bold policies to restore macroeconomic stability, strengthen policy credibility, improve market confidence and promote sustainable growth.
Cardoso commended the outgoing IMF representative for fostering constructive dialogue, facilitating technical cooperation and demonstrating professionalism and a practical understanding of Nigeria’s economic realities. He expressed confidence that the strong collaboration between Nigeria and the IMF would continue under Dr. Ebeke’s successor.
Responding to the tributes, Dr. Ebeke described his three-year assignment in Nigeria as both a privilege and a professionally rewarding experience.
He said serving as the IMF Resident Representative allowed him to engage with government officials, development partners, the private sector, academia and other stakeholders committed to Nigeria’s economic development.
Dr. Ebeke expressed admiration for the resilience, talent and entrepreneurial spirit of Nigerians, saying the country is well positioned to achieve inclusive and sustainable economic growth through continued reforms and sound economic policies.
He also thanked the Federal Government, the Ministry of Finance, the Central Bank of Nigeria, development partners, the media and his colleagues at the IMF for their support and cooperation throughout his assignment.
The event was attended by top government officials, including the Director-General of the Debt Management Office, Mrs. Patience Oniha; the Statistician-General of the Federation, Prince Adeyemi Adeniran; chief executives of government agencies; representatives of development partners and the diplomatic community; senior officials of the Federal Ministry of Finance; and other distinguished guests.
The evening ended with renewed appreciation for the enduring partnership between Nigeria and the IMF and a shared commitment to sustaining collaboration in support of the country’s fiscal and macroeconomic reform agenda.
