The World Bank has reportedly restricted comments on its official Instagram account following a wave of backlash from Nigerians over the proposed $1.25 billion loan to Nigeria. The move comes as online conversations around the loan have intensified, with many citizens voicing concerns about the country’s rising debt profile and questioning the sustainability of continued borrowing.

The restriction is seen as an attempt to manage the flood of negative reactions that trailed posts related to Nigeria’s loan request. Social media users had taken to the comment sections to criticize the Federal Government’s reliance on external borrowing, with some accusing the World Bank of enabling Nigeria’s debt spiral.

This development follows recent remarks by Nigeria’s Minister of Finance, Taiwo Oyedele, who warned that the country cannot keep borrowing its way to development. His statement at the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria’s annual conference highlighted the need for a sustainable fiscal system built on tax reforms, revenue diversification, and digital compliance rather than loans.

The backlash reflects growing public frustration. Many Nigerians argue that loans have not translated into visible improvements in infrastructure, healthcare, or education, while debt servicing continues to consume a significant portion of the national budget. Others, however, believe the funds could help stabilize the economy if properly managed and directed toward reforms.

China, the IMF, and other global lenders have faced similar criticism in the past when extending credit to developing nations, but the World Bank’s decision to restrict Instagram comments underscores the sensitivity of Nigeria’s current debt debate.