In today’s competitive landscape, gaining practical experience is essential for career success. The World Bank offers an exceptional opportunity for aspiring professionals across the globe through its fully funded 2025 Internship Programme, highlighting its commitment to nurturing talent and driving global development.
A Gateway to Global Development
The World Bank Internship Programme is more than a professional opportunity—it is an immersive experience that allows participants to contribute to impactful projects around the world. Interns are involved in various sectors, including economic policy, education, and infrastructure, gaining invaluable insights into the challenges and rewards of international development.
Fully Funded Excellence
What distinguishes this programme is its fully funded nature, ensuring that financial barriers do not impede access for qualified candidates. By embracing inclusivity, the World Bank allows individuals from diverse backgrounds to bring fresh perspectives, enriching both their professional development and the organisation’s mission.
Eligibility and Application Process
The programme is open to individuals currently enrolled in a graduate programme pursuing a master’s or PhD. Candidates must demonstrate proficiency in English, with additional languages such as French, Spanish, Russian, Arabic, Portuguese, or Chinese considered an asset. While prior relevant work experience is advantageous, a passion for international development and a commitment to making meaningful contributions are paramount.
Applications are accepted during specific periods throughout the year. Prospective interns should submit a well-prepared application, including a statement of interest, CV, and academic transcripts. Clearly articulating how your academic background aligns with the World Bank’s mission can significantly enhance your chances of selection.
A Stepping Stone to a Global Career
Alumni of the programme often excel in careers with international organisations, government agencies, academia, and the private sector. Beyond strengthening CVs, the internship offers access to a global network of professionals dedicated to sustainable development.
About the World Bank and the Internship Programme
The World Bank is a global financial institution dedicated to reducing poverty and fostering sustainable growth. By providing financial and technical support to developing countries, the organisation supports projects that promote economic growth, reduce inequality, and improve living standards. Operating in over 100 countries, the World Bank collaborates with governments, businesses, and communities to address some of the world’s most pressing challenges.
The Internship Programme reflects this mission by equipping future leaders with hands-on experience and the opportunity to collaborate with experts. Participants gain a deeper understanding of development issues while contributing to meaningful solutions.
For those ready to play a role in shaping a better future, the World Bank Internship Programme offers an unparalleled opportunity to make a difference while advancing their careers.
For further details and application guidelines, visit the official World Bank website or consult trusted platforms for updates.
Notable Nigerians Who Have Served at the World Bank
Nigerians have made remarkable contributions to global development through their roles at the World Bank. Below are profiles of distinguished individuals who have played impactful roles within the institution and beyond:
Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala
Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala served two terms as Nigeria’s Minister of Finance and was the first woman to hold the position. She also served as Managing Director of the World Bank from 2007 to 2011, where she was responsible for operations in Africa, South Asia, and Europe, overseeing portfolios worth billions of dollars.
During her tenure, Okonjo-Iweala spearheaded initiatives aimed at improving financial systems, reducing poverty, and fostering sustainable economic growth in developing countries. She played a pivotal role in raising billions of dollars in IDA (International Development Association) resources to assist low-income countries. Currently, she serves as the Director-General of the World Trade Organization, continuing her legacy of leadership on the global stage.
Arunma Oteh
Arunma Oteh served as Vice President and Treasurer of the World Bank from 2015 to 2018. In this role, she managed a $200 billion debt portfolio and supervised assets for central banks, sovereign wealth funds, and other institutional investors. She also championed sustainable financing solutions, including green bonds.
Prior to her role at the World Bank, Oteh was the Director General of Nigeria’s Securities and Exchange Commission, where she played a key role in reforming and stabilising the Nigerian capital markets. Oteh remains a prominent advocate for sustainable finance and inclusive economic policies.
Oby Ezekwesili
Oby Ezekwesili served as Vice President for the Africa Region at the World Bank from 2007 to 2012. She oversaw operations and projects aimed at addressing key development challenges, such as infrastructure deficits and governance in sub-Saharan Africa.
Before joining the World Bank, Ezekwesili held ministerial roles in Nigeria, serving as Federal Minister of Solid Minerals and later as Federal Minister of Education. She is a co-founder of Transparency International and continues to advocate for good governance and transparency globally.
Zainab Usman
Zainab Usman worked at the World Bank as a policy expert, focusing on governance and economic development in Africa. She is now the Director of the Africa Programme at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace.
At the World Bank, Usman contributed to research and policy recommendations for public sector reforms and economic diversification. She is the author of Economic Diversification in Nigeria: The Politics of Building a Post-Oil Economy, which explores pathways to sustainable economic growth in Africa.
Kalu Idika Kalu
Kalu Idika Kalu served as a Senior Economist at the World Bank, contributing to various developmental projects across Africa and beyond. After his time at the World Bank, Kalu held several prominent positions in Nigeria, including Minister of Finance and Minister of National Planning, where he implemented reforms aimed at improving fiscal management and boosting economic growth.
Kalu’s expertise in economic policy and development planning has left a lasting impact on Nigeria’s economic landscape, and his legacy continues to inspire policymakers and development experts.
