….President says Nigeria entering ‘more robust phase’ of development
…Promised reforms to strengthen economy, security, and investment climate in new year
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has assured Nigerians that 2026 will mark the beginning of a stronger phase of economic growth for the country, promising improved prosperity, deeper reforms, and a more stable financial outlook for citizens and investors.
In his New Year message titled “2026 Marks the Beginning of a More Robust Phase of Economic Growth,” the President said his administration’s economic, fiscal, and monetary reforms have begun yielding tangible gains, even amid global economic uncertainty.
“Fellow compatriots, I welcome you all to 2026 with gratitude to God and confidence in our collective resolve that this new year will be more prosperous for our nation and all who call Nigeria home,” Tinubu said.
According to him, 2025 ended on a strong note with rising GDP figures, stabilised exchange rates, declining inflation, and higher investor confidence.
He noted that Nigeria recorded quarterly growth across the year, with annual performance projected to exceed four percent. Inflation, he added, reduced to below 15 percent, while foreign reserves improved to $45.4 billion as of December 29, 2025.
Tinubu further disclosed that foreign direct investment rose significantly from $90 million in the second quarter to $720 million in the third quarter of 2025, a development he attributed to renewed investor confidence and favourable global ratings by agencies such as Moody’s, Fitch, and Standard & Poor’s.
Speaking on fiscal direction, the
President referenced the recently presented 2026 Appropriation Bill, saying the focus is on consolidating reform gains, expanding infrastructure investment, and strengthening human capital through agriculture, education, healthcare, transport, and power.
He also highlighted ongoing tax harmonisation efforts, which he said are designed to ease citizen hardship, reduce multiple taxation, and create a fairer system that supports enterprise growth and revenue stability.
On security, the President acknowledged persisting threats from criminal and terror networks but said coordinated military operations and international cooperation—especially with the United States and regional partners—will continue in 2026. He restated his position on decentralised policing and properly regulated forest guard structures to improve national safety.
Tinubu expressed confidence in the administration’s ward-based economic empowerment programme, targeted at engaging 10 million Nigerians through initiatives in agriculture, food processing, mining, and trade. Each of the 8,809 wards across the country is expected to benefit from skills, funding, and community-level economic support.
While urging citizens to remain united, patriotic, and committed to nation-building, he appealed for patience and public support for the reforms. “The path of reform is never easy, but it is necessary. Together, we will build a stronger and more prosperous Nigeria,” he said.
The President wished Nigerians a peaceful, productive, and prosperous year, praying for the protection of citizens and security personnel across the country.
