Prosper Okoye
Nigeria is expected to rank as the world’s sixth-largest contributor to global economic growth in 2026, according to new data from the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
The IMF says Africa’s biggest economy will account for 1.5% of global real GDP growth next year, placing it ahead of countries such as Germany, Brazil and Indonesia.
In its latest outlook, the IMF said Nigeria’s performance reflects the growing weight of emerging markets in the global economy.
“Nigeria is projected to contribute 1.5% of global real GDP growth in 2026,” the IMF said.
China is forecast to remain the biggest driver of global growth, contributing 26.6%, followed by India at 17% and the United States at 9.9%. Together, China and India are expected to generate 43.6% of global growth.
Other countries in the top ten include Indonesia (3.8%), Türkiye (2.2%), Saudi Arabia (1.7%), Vietnam (1.6%), Brazil (1.5%) and Germany (0.9%).
The IMF also said the Asia-Pacific region will dominate global growth, accounting for nearly half of total expansion worldwide.
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Despite inflation, currency pressures and slow global demand, the IMF said Nigeria remains a key driver among emerging economies.
“Nigeria’s ranking shows its continued relevance in shaping global economic trends,” the IMF noted.
Prosper Okoye is a Correspondent and Research Writer at Prime Business Africa, a Nigerian journalist with experience in development reporting, public affairs, and policy-focused storytelling across Africa
