The World Bank has removed its latest Nigeria Development Update report from its website, days after publication, while issuing a clarification on its stance regarding petrol importation in Nigeria.

The report, titled “Nigeria’s Tomorrow Must Start Today: The Case for Early Childhood Development,” was released on April 7, 2026, but is no longer accessible online, with users now encountering a “page not found” message.

Although the Bank has not officially explained why the report was withdrawn, its accompanying press statement remains publicly available.

In its clarification, the World Bank said its recommendation on Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) imports should be viewed in the context of both domestic realities and global energy supply pressures.

The institution noted that while allowing petrol imports may improve market competition, such a policy must be balanced against global concerns over fuel security and supply disruptions.

It stressed that Nigeria’s immediate focus should remain on protecting vulnerable citizens through stronger social safety net systems.

The Bank also said that a gradual transition toward a competitive retail petrol market remains a valid long-term policy goal, but must be carefully sequenced to ensure fuel quality, regulatory compliance, and market stability.

It acknowledged efforts by the Nigerian government and private sector to secure fuel availability, describing those steps as essential to protecting consumers and businesses.

Before being removed, the report had projected cautious optimism for Nigeria’s economy, citing 4 percent GDP growth in 2025 and a decline in inflation to 15.1 percent in February 2026 from 26.3 percent the previous year.