Edith Jibunoh is no stranger to global corridors of influence. From the bustling policy rooms of Abuja to the multilateral nerve centres of Washington, she has consistently stood out as a strategist who understands power, people, and purpose. Her recent appointment as Director of External Affairs at the World Bank signals more than just a career milestone. It marks the return of a deeply experienced voice to one of the most pivotal institutions shaping global development today.
For those familiar with her work, Jibunoh’s elevation comes as no surprise. Her career has crisscrossed government, civil society, and international development. She previously served as an adviser to Nigeria’s Minister of Finance, where she helped align national policy with multilateral financing goals. At the ONE Campaign, she shaped global advocacy efforts and refined how development partners engage with African governments and grassroots communities alike.
What has defined Edith’s journey, however, is not just her résumé. It is her unique ability to connect institutional priorities with real human stories. Whether she’s managing reputational risks or building coalitions across vastly different regions, her strength lies in making global structures feel responsive and inclusive.
Now, at the helm of External Affairs, she’s tasked with more than just crafting strategic messaging. She will advise the Bank’s senior leadership across continents, support trust-building with stakeholders, and ensure that the World Bank’s external voice resonates not only with political leaders, but also with the people who feel the Bank’s work most directly.
“This elevation means a great deal to me—not just professionally, but personally,” Jibunoh shared. “It’s the culmination of years of learning, stretching, leading, and listening.” Her statement is a reflection of the thoughtful leadership she brings: one grounded in both professional expertise and deep personal commitment.
Edith’s return also underscores the Bank’s quiet but significant shift towards a more grounded, narrative-conscious approach to engagement. In an era where multilateral institutions face growing scrutiny over legitimacy and relevance, having someone who understands both the institutional machine and the communities it serves is not only strategic, but necessary.
