President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has signaled that Nigeria is set to enter a more resilient period of economic expansion in 2026, building on the achievements of 2025 through a mix of fiscal, monetary, and structural reforms. In his New Year address, the President noted that despite global economic pressures, Nigeria ended 2025 on a firm footing, with policy measures now translating into tangible improvements for citizens and the economy.
Economic Gains and Outlook for 2026
According to the President, Nigeria experienced consistent GDP growth throughout 2025, with annual expansion projected to surpass four percent. Key indicators, including trade balances and exchange-rate stability, showed marked improvement, while inflation declined to below 15 percent as projected by the government.
Tinubu also highlighted the Nigerian Stock Exchange’s exceptional performance, noting a 48.12 percent gain in 2025, continuing a market rally that began in the second half of 2023. He further reported that foreign reserves reached $45.4 billion by December 29, 2025, strengthening the naira against external shocks and creating a solid foundation for further growth in 2026.
Foreign direct investment also saw a sharp increase, rising to $720 million in Q3 2025 from $90 million in the prior quarter, a reflection of renewed investor confidence. International credit rating agencies such as Moody’s, Fitch, and Standard & Poor’s continued to endorse Nigeria’s economic trajectory, according to Tinubu.
Fiscal Discipline and Tax Reforms
The President referenced the submission of the 2026 Appropriation Bill to the National Assembly, reaffirming his commitment to fiscal discipline as a cornerstone of sustainable growth. He stressed that easing inflation and interest rates would free resources for critical investments in infrastructure and human capital.
Tinubu also praised states that adopted harmonized tax frameworks aligned with federal reforms, aiming to reduce multiple levies on individuals and businesses. He described 2026 as a key year for tax reform implementation to create a fair, competitive, and sustainable revenue system for national development.
Security as a Catalyst for Growth
Acknowledging persistent security challenges, the President stressed that economic progress must go hand in hand with peace and stability. He disclosed that Nigerian security forces, in coordination with international partners including the U.S., conducted targeted operations against terrorist groups in the Northwest on December 24. Ongoing military efforts continue in the Northwest and Northeast regions.
Tinubu reaffirmed plans to enhance collaboration with regional and global allies, while also supporting decentralized policing and the use of well-regulated forest guards to tackle terrorism, banditry, and other criminal activities.
Inclusive Growth and Social Empowerment
The President announced that the Renewed Hope Ward Development Programme would be accelerated in 2026, aiming to empower at least 1,000 residents in each of Nigeria’s 8,809 wards—bringing roughly 10 million citizens into productive economic activity.
He indicated that priority would be given to key sectors such as agriculture, trade, food processing, and mining to stimulate local economies. Investments will continue across infrastructure, including roads, power, ports, railways, airports, pipelines, healthcare, and education, with all ongoing projects set to continue uninterrupted.
Call for Unity and Collective Progress
Concluding his address, President Tinubu appealed to Nigerians to strengthen national unity, patriotism, and shared responsibility, stressing that the country’s progress in 2026 depends on cooperation and collective effort. He wished citizens a peaceful, productive, and prosperous New Year, offering prayers for lasting security, stability, and protection for the nation and its armed forces.
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