President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has said 2026 will mark the beginning of a more robust phase of economic growth for Nigeria, declaring that reforms undertaken by his administration are beginning to yield tangible results.
He stated this in his New Year goodwill message to Nigerians, pledging sustained economic stability, improved security, and inclusive growth in the year ahead.
Tinubu expressed optimism that the new year would be more prosperous, noting that despite global economic headwinds in 2025, Nigeria recorded “tangible and measurable gains,” particularly in growth, inflation management, foreign reserves, investment inflows and stock market performance.
According to him, Nigeria ended 2025 on a strong economic footing, with annual growth projected to exceed 4 per cent and inflation falling below 15 per cent.
He added that exchange rate stability improved, while the Nigerian stock market posted a gain of more than 48 percent.
The President also disclosed that foreign reserves stood at $45.4 billion as of December 29, 2025, while foreign direct investment rose significantly in the third quarter of the year, reflecting renewed investor confidence in the economy.
Tinubu said his administration would focus on consolidating gains in 2026 by building “a resilient, sustainable, inclusive, and growth-oriented economy,” while pursuing policies to further reduce inflation and ensure reforms translate into better living conditions for citizens.
On fiscal policy, he said the 2026 Appropriation Bill presented to the National Assembly reflects the government’s commitment to discipline, tax reform and sustainable revenue growth.
He reiterated his support for harmonised tax laws across the country to eliminate multiple taxation and reduce the burden on households and businesses.
Tinubu said, “The new year marks a critical phase in implementing our tax reforms”, promising that improved revenue would be channelled into infrastructure and social investment to deliver shared prosperity.
Addressing security, the President acknowledged persistent threats from terrorists and criminal groups, noting recent joint actions with international partners and ongoing military operations in the North-West and North-East.
He restated his support for decentralised policing and properly regulated forest guards as part of reforms to strengthen internal security.
Tinubu also announced plans to accelerate the Renewed Hope Ward Development Programme, targeting the empowerment of at least 10 million Nigerians through grassroots economic activity in 8,809 wards nationwide.
He listed agriculture, trade, food processing and mining as key drivers of local job creation, and pledged continued investment in roads, power, ports, railways, airports, pipelines, healthcare and education, while assuring that all ongoing infrastructure projects would continue without interruption.
Calling for unity and patriotism, the President urged Nigerians to see nation-building as a shared responsibility.
He stated, “We must stand together in unity and purpose”, wishing citizens a peaceful and prosperous New Year and praying for the protection of the country’s troops and the defeat of its adversaries.
