President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed optimism about Nigeria’s economic trajectory, declaring that the country has begun to record tangible gains from ongoing reforms and is on course for a more stable and prosperous future in 2026.
In his New Year address to the nation on Wednesday, the President said Nigeria had made “significant progress” in 2025 despite global economic pressures. He noted that the administration’s reform agenda is beginning to yield measurable results.
According to the president, the country recorded steady economic growth throughout the year, with gross domestic product expanding consistently and annual growth projected to exceed four per cent. He also added that inflation had declined to below 15 per cent, while exchange rate stability improved alongside sustained trade surpluses.
“Our economy is showing resilience. Despite global headwinds, we recorded tangible gains that reaffirm our belief that the difficult reforms we embarked upon are yielding results,” Tinubu said.
The President disclosed that Nigeria’s foreign reserves rose to $45.4 billion by the end of December 2025. And that it provides a strong buffer against external shocks. He also noted that the Nigerian Stock Exchange recorded a 48.12 per cent growth in 2025, outperforming several global markets.
Tinubu further revealed that foreign direct investment surged to $720 million in the third quarter of 2025, up from $90 million in the previous quarter, attributing the increase to renewed investor confidence and improved macroeconomic stability. He said international rating agencies such as Moody’s, Fitch and Standard & Poor’s had acknowledged Nigeria’s improving outlook.
While talking about fiscal management, the President said his administration had laid a solid foundation for long-term stability through tax and expenditure reforms. He stressed that the 2026 Appropriation Bill was designed to deepen fiscal discipline, as well as expand infrastructure investment and promote inclusive growth.
He also addressed the challenge of multiple taxation, commending states that have aligned with the national tax harmonisation framework. According to him, the ongoing reforms would ease the burden on citizens and businesses while strengthening government revenue.
Turning to security, Tinubu acknowledged persistent threats from criminal and terrorist groups but said sustained military operations, supported by international partners, had degraded terrorist networks, particularly in the North-West and North-East.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to protecting lives and property and expressed support for decentralised policing structures and improved forest security, anchored on accountability and coordination.
The President also announced plans to accelerate social and economic inclusion through the Renewed Hope Ward Development Programme, aimed at empowering at least 10 million Nigerians across 8,809 wards through agriculture, trade, mining and small-scale enterprise.
He assured Nigerians that key infrastructure projects in power, transportation, healthcare, education and agriculture would continue uninterrupted.
Calling for unity and collective responsibility, Tinubu urged Nigerians to remain steadfast in supporting national development efforts.
“Nation-building is a shared responsibility. Together, we must work with discipline, patriotism and unity to secure a prosperous future for our country,” he said.
The President concluded by wishing Nigerians a peaceful and prosperous New Year, pledging his administration’s continued commitment to security, economic growth and national stability.
