President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed optimism that 2026 will usher in a more robust phase of economic growth for Nigeria, assuring citizens that the benefits of ongoing reforms will increasingly reflect in household welfare, job creation, and national stability.
In his New Year goodwill message to Nigerians on January 1, 2026, the President said the country recorded measurable economic progress in 2025 despite global economic headwinds, adding that key fiscal and monetary reforms are beginning to yield positive results.
Tinubu noted that Nigeria closed 2025 with sustained quarterly GDP growth, with annual growth projected to exceed four per cent. He said inflation declined steadily to below 15 per cent, trade surpluses were maintained, and the naira achieved greater exchange rate stability.
According to the President, Nigeria’s foreign reserves stood at $45.4 billion as of December 29, 2025, providing a strong buffer against external shocks, while foreign direct investment rose significantly to $720 million in the third quarter of 2025, reflecting renewed investor confidence.
The President also highlighted strong performance in the capital market, noting that the Nigerian Stock Exchange recorded a 48.12 per cent gain in 2025, outperforming several global peers.
On fiscal policy, Tinubu said his administration is deepening tax and budget reforms to expand fiscal space, reduce multiple taxation, and strengthen funding for infrastructure and social investments. He commended states that have adopted harmonised tax laws in line with the national tax reform agenda.
Presenting his outlook for 2026, the President said inflation and interest rates are expected to moderate further, enabling increased investment in roads, power, healthcare, education, agriculture, and other critical sectors. He assured Nigerians that all ongoing infrastructure projects would continue without interruption.
Addressing security, Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to combating terrorism and criminality, citing recent joint operations with international partners and sustained military actions across the Northwest and Northeast. He also reiterated support for decentralised policing with strong accountability mechanisms.
On inclusive growth, the President announced plans to accelerate the Renewed Hope Ward Development Programme, aimed at empowering at least 10 million Nigerians through agriculture, trade, food processing, and mining at the grassroots level.
Tinubu called on Nigerians to embrace unity, patriotism, and shared responsibility, stressing that national development requires collective effort.
“Nation-building is a shared responsibility,” he said, urging citizens to support reforms and uphold integrity in their respective roles.
The President concluded by wishing Nigerians a peaceful, productive, and prosperous New Year, while reaffirming his administration’s commitment to economic recovery, security, and national renewal.
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