2026 Marks Beginning of More Robust Economic Growth — Tinubu Assures Nigerians in New Year Message

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has assured Nigerians that 2026 will usher in a more robust phase of economic growth, with tangible improvements in livelihoods, as his administration consolidates gains from wide-ranging economic, fiscal, and security reforms.

In his New Year goodwill message to the nation on January 1, 2026, the President said the country closed 2025 on a strong economic footing despite global headwinds, expressing confidence that ongoing reforms are beginning to yield concrete results for ordinary Nigerians.

Economic Gains Recorded in 2025
Tinubu disclosed that Nigeria recorded robust GDP growth in every quarter of 2025, with annualised growth expected to exceed four per cent. He noted that the country maintained trade surpluses, achieved greater exchange rate stability, and successfully reduced inflation to below 15 per cent, in line with government targets.

According to the President, the Nigerian Stock Exchange outperformed its peers in 2025, posting a 48.12 per cent gain and sustaining the bullish momentum that began in the second half of 2023.

He added that Nigeria’s foreign reserves stood at $45.4 billion as of December 29, 2025, providing a strong buffer against external shocks and supporting the stability of the naira. Tinubu said the reserves position is expected to strengthen further in 2026.

Rising Investor Confidence
The President also highlighted improved investor sentiment, revealing that foreign direct investment rose sharply to $720 million in the third quarter of 2025, up from $90 million in the previous quarter.

He attributed the increase to renewed confidence in Nigeria’s economic direction, which he said has been affirmed by international credit rating agencies, including Moody’s, Fitch, and Standard & Poor’s.

Fiscal Discipline and Tax Reforms
Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to fiscal discipline and tax reform, referencing the recently presented 2026 Appropriation Bill. He said critical reforms implemented so far are laying a solid foundation for long-term stability and prosperity.

The President acknowledged the burden of multiple taxation on citizens and businesses and commended states that have aligned with the national tax harmonisation agenda. He said 2026 will be a critical year for implementing tax reforms aimed at building a fair, competitive, and robust fiscal system capable of sustainably raising revenue and financing infrastructure and social investments.

Security and National Stability
On security, Tinubu said economic progress must go hand in hand with peace and stability. He confirmed that decisive actions were taken against terrorist targets in parts of the Northwest on December 24, 2025, in collaboration with international partners, including the United States.

He noted that the Armed Forces have continued sustained operations against terror networks and criminal gangs across the Northwest and Northeast, pledging that security and intelligence agencies will deepen cooperation with regional and global partners in 2026.

The President reiterated his belief in decentralised policing with appropriate safeguards, complemented by properly regulated forest guards, as a critical strategy for addressing terrorism, banditry, and other security challenges.

Inclusive Growth and Social Development
Tinubu announced that 2026 marks the start of a more inclusive and growth-oriented phase of the economy.

He said the government will accelerate the Renewed Hope Ward Development Programme, targeting the empowerment of at least 1,000 people in each of Nigeria’s 8,809 wards, with the aim of bringing 10 million Nigerians into productive economic activity.

He added that agriculture, trade, food processing, and mining will be prioritised to stimulate local economies, while investments in infrastructure — including roads, power, ports, rail, airports, healthcare, education, and agriculture — will continue without interruption.

Call for Unity
In closing, the President called on Nigerians to embrace unity, patriotism, and shared responsibility in nation-building. He urged citizens to serve the country with integrity and to work collectively towards national progress.

Tinubu wished Nigerians a peaceful and prosperous New Year, praying for continued divine blessing and protection for the country and safety for Nigeria’s troops.