President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed confidence that 2026 will usher in a stronger phase of economic growth for Nigeria, citing stabilised inflation, improved foreign reserves, and rising foreign investment as indicators that the reforms of 2025 are producing tangible results.
Delivering his New Year address on Thursday, the President highlighted that the fiscal, monetary, and structural policies implemented last year helped the country navigate persistent global economic pressures, providing a firm foundation for further progress.
Looking Back and Moving Forward: 2026 as a Year of Opportunity
Tinubu opened his address with gratitude, welcoming Nigerians into the new year while underlining the government’s commitment to building on 2025’s achievements. He noted that despite global challenges, reforms in fiscal management and economic planning sustained steady growth, reinforcing citizens’ confidence in Nigeria’s future.
The President projected that 2026 will be a year of consolidation and resilience, emphasizing inclusive and sustainable economic development. He highlighted that GDP growth remained consistent throughout 2025, with projections exceeding four percent annually. Inflation declined steadily to below 15 percent, trade balances improved, and exchange rates remained stable.
Investor Confidence and Financial Indicators
President Tinubu also pointed to a 48.12 percent gain on the Nigerian Stock Exchange in 2025, extending the bullish momentum that began in late 2023. Foreign reserves stood at $45.4 billion as of December 29, 2025, providing a buffer against external shocks and reinforcing the naira.
He celebrated a sharp increase in foreign direct investment, rising from $90 million in the second quarter to $720 million in the third quarter of 2025, a trend acknowledged by global credit rating agencies including Moody’s, Fitch, and Standard & Poor’s, reflecting renewed confidence in Nigeria’s investment climate.
Fiscal Discipline and Tax Reform Priorities
Referencing his recent 2026 Appropriation Bill presentation, Tinubu stressed that fiscal responsibility is essential for long-term economic stability. He emphasized the importance of harmonized tax systems across states to reduce multiple levies, creating more resources for infrastructure and social development.
He described 2026 as a pivotal year for advancing tax reforms that will generate a fair, competitive, and sustainable revenue base to fund nationwide projects and services.
Security as a Pillar of Growth
Acknowledging that economic progress depends on stability, the President underscored the need for peace and security. He highlighted ongoing counterterrorism operations in the Northwest in collaboration with international partners, and the continued engagement of security agencies across conflict-affected regions.
Tinubu reiterated support for decentralized policing, complemented by forest guards and other measures, to combat terrorism, banditry, and related crimes, ensuring that security underpins all economic initiatives.
Inclusive Growth and Development Programmes
The President outlined plans to expand the Renewed Hope Ward Development Programme in 2026, targeting at least 1,000 citizens per ward across Nigeria’s 8,809 wards, effectively bringing 10 million people into productive economic activity.
He stressed that key sectors—agriculture, trade, mining, and food processing—will be prioritized alongside continued investments in roads, power, ports, railways, airports, pipelines, healthcare, and education, assuring that ongoing infrastructure projects will proceed without interruption.
Unity, Responsibility, and National Progress
In closing, President Tinubu urged Nigerians to embrace unity, patriotism, and shared responsibility, highlighting that nation-building requires collective effort. He wished citizens a peaceful and prosperous 2026 while praying for continued security and protection for the country and its armed forces.
© 2025 Gossip News Now, a division of CHIEJOS HARBIAN DIGITAL MEDIA LTD. Contact us via admin@gossipnewsnow.online
