**Closing Nigeria's Infrastructure Gap: Naira-based Funding Takes Centre Stage** Nigeria's infrastructure needs have been a pressing concern for years, with a staggering $100 billion in funding required annually to bridge the gap. According to credit rating agencies and government-linked analyses, the country's infrastructure deficit is particularly pronounced in areas such as power, transport, water, and roads. In a bid to address this gap, the United Capital Infrastructure Fund (UCIF) has identified naira-based funding as a crucial component in driving Nigeria's infrastructure development. Speaking on the fund's role, Peter Ashade, Group Chief Executive Officer of United Capital Plc, noted, "Long-term, naira-denominated capital is essential for Nigeria's growth, and UCIF is our response to bridging the infrastructure gap." UCIF, an infrastructure debt fund licensed by the Securities and Exchange Commission, has been making waves with its impressive performance. In 2025, the fund delivered a gross return of 24.62% and recorded a total income of ₦3.06 billion, reflecting strong investor demand and the growing role of private capital in critical infrastructure projects. The fund's commitment to social impact is also noteworthy, with a zero non-performing loan portfolio and a strengthened governance framework. This is particularly commendable, given the challenges faced by many infrastructure projects in Nigeria. The UCIF team, led by Chief Investment Officer and Fund Manager, Uchenna Mkparu, has been working tirelessly to mobilise sustainable funding for key projects, ensuring predictable returns for investors while supporting the country's economic growth. As Mkparu noted, the fund's strong financial performance for the year ended December 31, 2025, was a testament to its commitment to delivering value for investors and the nation. In a country where infrastructure development is often hampered by funding constraints, the UCIF model offers a beacon of hope. By providing a vehicle for mobilising naira-based funding, the fund is helping to bridge the infrastructure gap and drive economic growth, creating lasting value for investors and communities across Nigeria and Africa.