President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has assured Nigerians that 2026 will usher in a more robust phase of economic growth, expressing optimism that the new year will be more prosperous for the nation and its citizens.
In his New Year message titled “2026 Marks the Beginning of a More Robust Phase of Economic Growth,” the President said the economic reforms implemented by his administration are beginning to yield tangible results, with greater benefits expected to reach ordinary Nigerians.
Tinubu noted that despite global economic headwinds, Nigeria recorded steady economic progress in 2025, driven by fiscal reforms and policy adjustments aimed at stabilising the economy.
“Despite persistent global economic headwinds, we recorded tangible and measurable gains, particularly in the economy. These achievements reaffirm our belief that the difficult but necessary reforms we embarked upon are moving us in the right direction,” he said.
According to the President, Nigeria closed 2025 on a strong note, recording robust quarterly GDP growth, with annual growth projected to exceed four per cent. He added that inflation declined steadily to below 15 per cent, while trade surpluses and improved exchange rate stability were also achieved.
Tinubu disclosed that the Nigerian Stock Exchange posted a 48.12 per cent gain in 2025, outperforming several global peers, while foreign reserves rose to $45.4 billion as of December 29, providing a strong buffer against external shocks.
He further revealed that foreign direct investment rose sharply in the third quarter of 2025, climbing to $720 million from $90 million in the preceding quarter, reflecting renewed investor confidence in Nigeria’s economic direction.
Looking ahead, the President said his administration would focus on consolidating gains, reducing inflation further, and expanding fiscal space for investment in infrastructure and human capital development. He also highlighted ongoing efforts to harmonise Nigeria’s tax system to reduce multiple taxation across all tiers of government.
Tinubu stressed that economic progress must go hand in hand with security, noting that the government remains committed to combating terrorism, banditry, and other criminal activities through sustained military operations and international cooperation.
He reiterated his support for decentralised policing, complemented by properly regulated forest guards, as part of broader efforts to strengthen national security.
The President also announced plans to accelerate the Renewed Hope Ward Development Programme in 2026, aimed at empowering at least 10 million Nigerians through agriculture, trade, food processing, mining, and other grassroots economic activities.
Tinubu concluded by calling on Nigerians to embrace unity, patriotism, and shared responsibility in nation-building, while wishing citizens a peaceful, productive, and prosperous New Year.
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