NIGERIAN PRESIDENT TINUBU OUTLINES 2026 ECONOMIC AND SECURITY AGENDA IN NEW YEAR ADDRESS

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has declared 2026 as the beginning of a more robust phase of economic growth for Nigeria, emphasizing a determined push to further reduce inflation and ensure the benefits of ongoing reforms reach every household. In his New Year Goodwill Message to the nation, the President reviewed the economic progress of 2025 and laid out key priorities for the new year.

The President stated that despite global headwinds, Nigeria recorded tangible gains in 2025. “We closed 2025 on a strong note. Despite the policies to fight inflation, Nigeria recorded a robust GDP growth each quarter, with annualised growth expected to exceed 4 per cent for the year,” he said. He noted that inflation declined steadily to below 15 per cent, trade surpluses were maintained, and greater exchange rate stability was achieved. The Nigerian Stock Exchange posted a 48.12 per cent gain.

Looking ahead, President Tinubu affirmed, “In 2026, we are determined to reduce inflation further and ensure that the benefits of reform reach every Nigerian household.” He highlighted that foreign reserves stood at $45.4 billion as of December 29, 2025, providing a buffer for the Naira, and that Foreign Direct Investment rose to $720 million in the third quarter of 2025, reflecting renewed investor confidence.

On fiscal policy, the President emphasized discipline and tax reform. “With patience, fiscal discipline, and unity of purpose, Nigeria will emerge in 2026 stronger and better positioned for sustained growth,” he said. He commended states aligning with the national tax harmonisation agenda, stating, “The new year marks a critical phase in implementing our tax reforms, designed to build a fair, competitive, and robust fiscal foundation for Nigeria.”

Addressing security, President Tinubu detailed ongoing efforts against threats. He referenced collaborative actions with international partners, including the United States, against terrorist targets in the Northwest on December 24. “In 2026, our security and intelligence agencies will deepen cooperation with regional and global partners to eliminate all threats to national security,” he stated. The President reiterated his belief in “a decentralised policing system with appropriate safeguards” as critical to addressing security challenges.

For inclusive growth, the administration will accelerate the Renewed Hope Ward Development Programme, aiming to bring 10 million Nigerians into productive economic activity by empowering people in all 8,809 wards. Investments in infrastructure across roads, power, ports, railways, and agriculture will continue without interruption.

President Tinubu concluded with a call for unity and responsibility. “Nation-building is a shared responsibility. We must stand together in unity and purpose, uphold patriotism, and serve our country with honour and integrity in our respective roles,” he urged. He wished Nigerians a peaceful, productive, and prosperous New Year.