President Bola Tinubu has declared 2026 as the launchpad for a more robust economic era. Following a significant fiscal reset in 2025, his administration remains steadfast in its mission to ensure that the dividends of national reforms translate into tangible prosperity for every Nigerian household.
The President said this in his 2026 New Year Message where he highlighted that Nigeria concluded 2025 with ‘measurable economic gains’ despite persistent global headwinds. He reaffirmed that while the administration’s reforms were “difficult but necessary,” they remain vital milestones on the path toward ‘long-term prosperity’ for all Nigerians.
President Tinubu noted that Nigeria maintained steady GDP growth throughout 2025, with annualized growth set to exceed four percent. This expansion is bolstered by consistent trade surpluses, enhanced exchange rate stability, and a ‘steady decline in inflation,’ which reached the government’s sub-15% target by year-end.
“We are determined to reduce inflation further and ensure that the benefits of reform reach every Nigerian household,” he said.
President Tinubu confirmed that aggressive monetary policies led to a sharp decline in inflation, falling below 15% by the close of 2025. This economic momentum was mirrored in the equities market, where the Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX) delivered an impressive 48.12% gain, outperforming regional peers and extending the bullish run initiated in mid-2023.
Furthermore, the nation’s foreign reserves stabilized at $45.4 billion by December 29, 2025. This robust position provides a significant buffer against external economic shocks and is projected to see continued improvement throughout the new year.
Highlighting a surge in foreign investment, the President noted that Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) climbed to $720 million in Q3 2025—a significant leap from the $90 million recorded in the previous quarter. This growth was attributed to bolstered investor confidence, recently validated by positive assessments from global credit rating agencies.
However, on fiscal discipline, the President said his administration had laid a solid foundation for long-term stability through reforms, including tax harmonisation aimed at ending multiple taxation across all tiers of government.
The new year marks a critical phase in implementing our tax reforms, designed to build a fair, competitive, and robust fiscal foundation for Nigeria,” he said.
Tinubu emphasized his administration’s reforms are designed to sustainably boost revenue, eliminate fiscal distortions, and enhance the government’s capacity to finance critical infrastructure and social investments that will secure shared prosperity.
On security, the president said economic progress must go hand in hand with peace and stability, noting that decisive actions were taken against terrorist targets in parts of the north-west on December 24, in collaboration with international partners.
He emphasized that the armed forces are maintaining aggressive operations against terror networks in the North-West and North-East, while security and intelligence agencies accelerate strategic cooperation with regional and global partners throughout 2026.
Tinubu reiterated his support for decentralised policing with safeguards, complemented by properly regulated forest guards, as part of efforts to tackle terrorism and banditry.
How do I refine this paragraph professionally and catchy ” Tinubu reiterated his support for decentralised policing with safeguards, complemented by properly regulated forest guards, as part of efforts to tackle terrorism and banditry.
Also, on inclusive growth, the president said his administration would accelerate the Renewed Hope Ward Development Programme, targeting the empowerment of at least 10 million Nigerians through grassroots economic activities across the country’s 8,809 wards.
President Tinubu further confirm that investments in infrastructure, agriculture, healthcare, education, and transport would continue without interruption to strengthen food security and improve the quality of life.
To realize our 2026 objectives, every citizen must take an active role. Nation-building is a collective responsibility,” Tinubu stated.
“We must stand together in unity and purpose, uphold patriotism, and serve our country with honour and integrity in our respective roles.
“Let us resolve to be better citizens, better neighbours, and better stewards of our nation.
“Fellow Nigerians, I wish you all a peaceful, productive, and prosperous New Year. May God continue to bless and protect our beloved country, keep our troops safe and destroy the enemies bent on disrupting our national peace, security and stability.”
