June 17, 2026
By Peter Egwuatu
Capital market operators and economic experts have urged the Federal Government to be cautious in implementing the International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) policy recommendations, warning against expensive foreign loans and a Value Added Tax (VAT) increase.
Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Arthur Stevens Asset Management and former President of the Chartered Institute of Stockbrokers (CIS), Olatunde Amolegbe, said: “The IMF’s concern regarding the collateralisation of the proposed facility is understandable. Borrowing against strategic national assets or future revenue streams at a high collateral ratio could increase fiscal vulnerabilities and limit future financial flexibility.”
According to him, “The assessment should depend on the terms of the facility, the cost of funds, tenor and expected economic returns from the projects to be financed.”
