Current Deficits in Nutrition, Learning, and On-the-Job Skills Are Costing Children Born Today Half of Their Future Earnings © 2026 The World Bank Group,

https://www.worldbank.org/en/news/press-release/2026/02/12/nigeria-human-capital-nutrition-learning-skills-deficits-reduce-future-earnings ABUJA, February 12, 2026— Current deficits in health, education, and skill development at work are costing low- and middle-income countries 51% of their future labor earnings, according to a new World Bank Group report released today. In Nigeria, existing deficits are costing 111% of future earnings. Over the past 15 years, even as incomes have risen and poverty has declined, two-thirds of low- and middle-income countries have experienced declines in nutrition, learning, or workforce skills. For example, in Nigeria student test scores have remained stagnant. In 2025, these scores are one point below those of 2010. Reversing these deficits will require a new approach to human capital investments. © 2026 The World Bank Group,