Buhari nominated Zainab Ahmed as ED at the World Bank
By Patience Ikpeme
Former President Muhammadu Buhari nominated Zainab Ahmed as the Alternate Executive Director at the World Bank.
A reliable source from the Federal Ministry of Finance, who is familiar with Ahmed’s work, confirmed this information.
The source emphasized that Ahmed was not self-nominated, but was officially endorsed by the Ministry and approved by President Buhari before his departure.
“This type of nomination is not unusual, as the former Director General of the Budget Office of the Federation was nominated as the Executive Director during President Jonathan’s administration”
The source also pointed out that the current Executive Director, who Ahmed will be working under, previously served as a South African Minister.
It is important to note that the position of Executive Director is reserved for high-ranking officials who have retired from the Ministry of Finance or Treasury Department of World Bank member countries.
The official categorically denied allegations that Ahmed plans to bring her assistants along.
Ahmed’s media adviser, Yunusa Tanko Abdullahi, reiterated the information provided by the official and emphasized that the World Bank follows strict rules and processes.
“Any individual serving as an Alternate Executive Director must be a representative of their country and have the approval and endorsement of their government”.
Abdullahi clarified that the position became vacant in October 2022 and was approved by President Buhari in April 2023 with the understanding that Ahmed would assume the role after her tenure as Minister.
It should be noted that Ahmed will be working under Ayanda Dlondlo, the Executive Director of South Africa (EDS25). Executive Directors and their alternates have dual responsibilities, acting on behalf of the World Bank and representing their respective countries.
The full power to act for the World Bank Director rests with the Alternate Executive Director in the Director’s absence.
