# Tags

NIGERIA’S INFORMATION MINISTER WOOS FRENCH INVESTORS WITH PRO-BUSINESS REFORMS

Nigeria’s Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has made a strong pitch to French investors, highlighting the country’s ambitious economic reforms and investor-friendly environment. In a statement, Idris emphasized Nigeria’s commitment to fostering deeper economic ties with France while speaking at the Nigeria Business Forum in Paris. Special Assistant to the Minister, Rabiu Ibrahim, noted that Idris commended longstanding French partners operating in Nigeria, including TotalEnergies, Lafarge, and Peugeot, for their contributions across key sectors. Idris said Nigeria is undergoing an “unprecedented journey of reform” driven by the Renewed Hope Agenda, aimed at unlocking the nation’s vast economic potential. “These historic reforms are building a more competitive, transparent, and investor-friendly economy,” he said. Idris highlighted key reforms, including unification of the foreign exchange regime, tax reforms, and digital reforms. He assured investors of a well-regulated economy, supported by strong institutions like the Central Bank of Nigeria and the Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission. Ibrahim added that Idris expressed confidence in Nigeria’s unique investment appeal, citing its large population and stable democratic governance. The Minister also discussed initiatives like the Renewed Hope Infrastructure Development Fund and the Nigerian Consumer Credit Corporation, which aim to catalyze private sector growth. He invited French companies to explore new opportunities in Nigeria’s livestock sector and projected increased Nigerian presence in France across creative industries and technology. “We must brace up for the future with commitment and optimism,” Idris said, echoing President Tinubu’s message.

2025: A YEAR OF CONSOLIDATION FOR PRESIDENT TINUBU’S ADMINISTRATION

Nigeria’s Minister of Information and National Orientation, Muhammed Idris fnipr, has declared 2025 as a pivotal year of consolidation for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration. This declaration was made during a Ministerial Press Briefing held in Abuja, where Minister Idris emphasized the importance of reflecting on the administration’s accomplishments as it approaches its mid-term. The Director of Public Communication and National Orientation, Henshaw Ogubike Mnipr FCAi Fsca Fcpe, noted in a statement that the administration has made significant strides in various areas, including fiscal, macroeconomic, and legislative reforms. Ogubike stated that the removal of fuel subsidies has plugged financial leakages amounting to hundreds of billions of Naira annually. He also highlighted the introduction of the Electronic Foreign Exchange Matching System (EFEMS), which has led to unprecedented stability in the FX market, clearing billions of dollars in backlogs and boosting foreign investment. Under President Tinubu’s leadership, Nigeria has become a hub of construction activity, with recent approvals from the Federal Executive Council including over 2.5 trillion Naira for various road projects. Ogubike noted that these projects include the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, access roads to the Second Niger Bridge, and the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway reconstruction. Henshaw Ogubike also emphasized the administration’s achievements in defence and security, citing the neutralization of over 8,000 terrorists and bandits, the rescue of 8,000 kidnap victims, and the establishment of a Multi-Agency Anti-Kidnap Fusion Cell in collaboration with the UK’s National Crime Agency. In his conclusion, Minister Idris stated that the bold initiatives of President Tinubu are fostering greater fiscal capacity, a reformed tax regime, and improved living standards for Nigerians through various support programs. “We are witnessing a transformative era, where hope is being renewed for all Nigerians, regardless of age or gender, across the nation,” he added.

FEDERAL GOVERNMENT RESPONDS TO EMIR SANUSI’S COMMENTS ON ECONOMIC REFORMS

The Federal Government has responded to recent comments made by Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II regarding the economic reforms introduced under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration. In a statement, the government noted that while Emir Sanusi has the right to express his opinions, it is disappointing that he would publicly admit to withholding the truth due to personal interests. According to Honourable Minister Mohammed Idris, “Nigeria is at a pivotal juncture where bold and decisive actions are necessary to tackle entrenched economic challenges.” Mohammed Idris stated that the government has implemented transformative reforms to secure Nigeria’s long-term stability and growth. He noted that these reforms are already delivering measurable progress, including the unification of exchange rates, which has bolstered investor confidence and increased foreign reserves. Mohammed Idris emphasized that the temporary pains experienced from these reforms are a necessary consequence of decades of irresponsible economic management. He urged Emir Sanusi to rise above personal interests and partisan undertones, and prioritize the greater good of Nigerians. Mohammed Idris stated that rebuilding Nigeria requires unity, focus, and sacrifice from all stakeholders. The government urged esteemed leaders to refrain from rhetoric that undermines public trust, and instead champion the collective goal of a prosperous Nigeria. Mohammed Idris concluded that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration remains resolute in its mission to lead Nigeria towards economic inclusivity, sustainability, and shared prosperity.