2026 Outlook: Tinubu Vows Economic Revival

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Economic Growth and National Unity in Nigeria’s New Year

President Bola Tinubu has highlighted that 2026 marks the beginning of a more robust phase of economic growth for Nigeria. The President has pledged to drive down inflation further, strengthen foreign reserves, and sustain the country’s GDP growth trajectory. In his New Year message to Nigerians, he expressed confidence in the nation’s collective resolve, stating that the new year would be a more prosperous one for the country, its citizens, and all who call Nigeria home.

Tinubu emphasized that during 2025, his administration sustained momentum on major reforms, achieved a fiscal reset, and recorded steady economic progress. Despite global economic headwinds, he noted that Nigeria recorded tangible and measurable gains, particularly in the economy. These achievements reaffirmed his belief that the difficult but necessary reforms embarked upon are moving the country in the right direction with more concrete results on the horizon for the ordinary Nigerian.

The President disclosed that Nigeria closed 2025 on a strong note, with annualised GDP growth expected to exceed four per cent for the year. Trade surpluses were maintained, greater exchange rate stability was achieved, and inflation declined steadily to below 15 per cent, in line with his administration’s target. He stated that in 2026, the government is determined to reduce inflation further and ensure that the benefits of reform reach every Nigerian household.

Tinubu pointed to the performance of the Nigerian Stock Exchange, which posted a robust 48.12 per cent gain in 2025, consolidating its bullish run that began in the second half of 2023. On foreign reserves, he disclosed that sound monetary policy management had seen reserves stand at $45.4bn as of December 29, 2025, providing a substantial buffer against external shocks for the Naira. He expressed optimism that this position would strengthen further in the new year.

Foreign direct investment (FDI) also responded positively. In the third quarter of 2025, FDI rose to $720m, up from $90m in the preceding quarter, reflecting renewed investor confidence in Nigeria’s economic direction. Global credit rating agencies, including Moody’s, Fitch, and Standard & Poor’s, had consistently affirmed and applauded this progress.

Tinubu recalled presenting the 2026 Appropriation Bill to the National Assembly, emphasizing that his administration had implemented critical reforms laying a solid foundation for long-term stability and prosperity. With patience, fiscal discipline, and unity of purpose, he believes Nigeria will emerge in 2026 stronger and better positioned for sustained growth.

As inflation and interest rates moderate, the administration expects increased fiscal space for productive investment in infrastructure and human capital development. The President commended states that had aligned with the national tax harmonisation agenda by adopting harmonised tax laws to reduce the excessive burden of taxes, levies, and fees on citizens and basic consumption.

The new year marks a critical phase in implementing tax reforms designed to build a fair, competitive, and robust fiscal foundation for Nigeria. On security, the President acknowledged that the nation continues to confront threats from criminal and terrorist elements. He disclosed that in collaboration with international partners, including the United States, decisive actions were taken against terrorist targets in parts of the Northwest on December 24.

The Armed Forces have sustained operations against terror networks and criminal strongholds across the Northwest and Northeast. In 2026, security and intelligence agencies will deepen cooperation with regional and global partners to eliminate all threats to national security. The President reiterated his belief that a decentralised policing system with appropriate safeguards, complemented by properly regulated forest guards and anchored on accountability, is critical to effectively addressing terrorism, banditry, and related security challenges.

Tinubu also announced plans to accelerate the implementation of the Renewed Hope Ward Development Programme, aiming to bring at least 10 million Nigerians into productive economic activity by empowering at least 1,000 people in each of the 8,809 wards across the country. Through agriculture, trade, food processing, and mining, the administration will stimulate local economies and expand grassroots opportunities. Investment will continue in modernising Nigeria’s infrastructure, including roads, power, ports, railways, airports, pipelines, healthcare, education, and agriculture to strengthen food security and improve quality of life.

The President called on all Nigerians to play their part, describing nation-building as a shared responsibility that required unity of purpose, patriotism, and service with honour and integrity. He urged Nigerians to stand together in unity and purpose, uphold patriotism, and serve their country with honour and integrity in their respective roles.

Calls for Unity and Collective Effort

Meanwhile, governors and other political leaders across the country reflected on the trials of the outgoing year, calling for unity, resilience, and renewed commitment to governance, security, and economic recovery. Speaker of the House of Representatives, Dr Tajudeen Abbas, urged Nigerians to remain positive and hopeful about the future. He called on citizens to look forward to 2026 with optimism and to continue working collectively for the unity and progress of the country.

Niger State Governor, Mohammed Bago, in a statement, said social pressures and security challenges tested the resilience of his government in 2025. He asked residents to continue to support his administration in its efforts to deliver the New Niger Agenda, anchored on good governance, security, and economic revitalisation. A former Kaduna State Governor and chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party, Ahmed Makarfi, urged Nigerians to remain united and resilient in the New Year. He acknowledged the hardships faced by citizens over the past year but expressed optimism for a better future.

Senator Adetokunbo Abiru called on Nigerians to embrace unity, renewal, and collective resolve as the country enters 2026. He urged sustained support for policies aimed at economic stability, inclusive growth, and grassroots development. The Anglican Bishop of Owo Diocese of Ondo State, Stephen Fagbemi, called on Christians and all Nigerians to embrace peace and love in the New Year.

Political Parties and Electoral Reforms

For its part, the Young Progressives Party (YPP) has urged Nigerians not to lose faith in the democratic process ahead of the 2027 general elections, despite widespread frustration arising from past electoral experiences. The party made the call in its New Year message issued in Abuja by its National Publicity Secretary, Egbeola Martins. Public confidence in Nigeria’s electoral process sharply declined following the 2023 general elections, which were marred by widespread complaints of technical glitches, particularly the failure of the Independent National Electoral Commission’s Result Viewing Portal to upload polling unit results in real time.

Martins appealed to the masses to intensify civic engagement and political participation in what he described as a decisive period for Nigeria’s democracy. He warned against the politicisation of anti-graft agencies, insisting that selective justice undermines democracy and weakens public institutions.

Sokoto State Governor, Ahmed Aliyu, has assured residents that his administration will consolidate on the achievements recorded in 2025 as the state steps into the new year, with renewed focus on security, education, infrastructure, and economic empowerment. He outlined plans to construct new Islamiyya schools, rehabilitate existing ones, and complete ongoing infrastructure projects.

Amaechi urged Nigerians to hold those in authority accountable, describing responsible and people-oriented leadership as key to addressing the country’s economic and security challenges. He called on citizens to demand responsible, responsive, transparent, and accountable leadership.