President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has declared that 2026 marks the beginning of a more robust phase of economic growth for Nigeria, assuring citizens that the gains from ongoing reforms will increasingly translate into improved livelihoods and national prosperity.
In his New Year goodwill message to Nigerians, the President expressed gratitude to God and confidence in the collective resolve of the nation to build a stronger, more inclusive economy. He noted that despite persistent global economic headwinds, 2025 was a year of sustained reform momentum, fiscal reset, and measurable economic progress.
According to President Tinubu, Nigeria recorded robust quarterly GDP growth throughout 2025, with annualised growth projected to exceed four per cent. He revealed that inflation declined steadily to below 15 per cent, exchange rate stability improved, and trade surpluses were maintained. The Nigerian Stock Exchange also posted a remarkable 48.12 per cent gain, outperforming many global peers and reinforcing investor confidence.
The President further disclosed 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. He added that foreign direct investment responded positively to the reform agenda, rising sharply to $720 million in the third quarter of 2025 from $90 million in the preceding quarter, a development he said has been acknowledged by international credit rating agencies such as Moody’s, Fitch, and Standard & Poor’s.
On fiscal discipline, President Tinubu recalled the recent presentation of the 2026 Appropriation Bill to the National Assembly, stressing that critical reforms are laying a solid foundation for long-term economic stability and prosperity. He noted that as inflation and interest rates continue to moderate, government expects increased fiscal space to invest in infrastructure and human capital development.
He also highlighted ongoing tax reforms aimed at harmonising Nigeria’s tax system, reducing the burden of multiple taxation, and building a fair, competitive, and sustainable revenue framework. The President commended states that have aligned with the national tax harmonisation agenda, noting that the reforms will strengthen government’s capacity to finance infrastructure and social investments.
Addressing national security, President Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to safeguarding lives, property, and territorial integrity. He disclosed that decisive actions were taken against terrorist elements in parts of the Northwest in collaboration with international partners, with sustained military operations ongoing across the Northwest and Northeast. He emphasised that in 2026, security and intelligence agencies will deepen cooperation with regional and global partners, while reiterating his support for decentralised policing and properly regulated forest guards as part of a comprehensive security strategy.
On inclusive growth and social development, the President announced accelerated implementation of the Renewed Hope Ward Development Programme, aimed at empowering at least 1,000 people in each of Nigeria’s 8,809 wards and bringing no fewer than 10 million Nigerians into productive economic activity. He said agriculture, trade, food processing, and mining would be prioritised to stimulate local economies and expand grassroots opportunities, alongside sustained investments in roads, power, ports, railways, airports, healthcare, education, and food security.
President Tinubu concluded his address with a call for unity, patriotism, and shared responsibility, urging Nigerians to support nation-building efforts and uphold integrity in their daily lives. He wished citizens a peaceful, productive, and prosperous New Year, while praying for continued peace, security, and divine blessings upon the country.
The President reaffirmed that with patience, discipline and unity of purpose, Nigeria is poised to emerge stronger in 2026 and beyond.
