President Bola Tinubu has outlined his administration’s economic outlook for 2026, plans to strengthen national security, and the implementation of new tax reforms in his New Year message to Nigerians.
In the address released on January 1, the president said Nigeria recorded measurable economic gains in 2025 despite global headwinds, adding that his government would focus on consolidating reforms to deliver inclusive growth in the new year.
Economic growth, inflation outlook
Tinubu said Nigeria closed 2025 with strong economic momentum, recording consistent quarterly GDP growth, with annual expansion projected to exceed four percent.
According to him, inflation declined steadily to below 15 percent, exchange rate stability improved, and trade surpluses were maintained. He added that the Nigerian Exchange Limited outperformed global peers, posting a 48.12 percent gain during the year.
The president disclosed that foreign reserves stood at $45.4 billion as of December 29, 2025, providing a buffer against external shocks, while foreign direct investment rose sharply to $720 million in the third quarter of 2025, up from $90 million in the previous quarter.
Tax reforms, fiscal discipline
Tinubu said the implementation of tax reforms would enter a critical phase in 2026, with a focus on harmonising taxes across all tiers of government to reduce multiple taxation.
He said the reforms are designed to build a fair and competitive fiscal system, raise revenue sustainably, and strengthen the government’s capacity to fund infrastructure and social investments.
The president also noted that moderating inflation and interest rates would create fiscal space for increased investment in infrastructure and human capital development.
Security operations, policing reforms
On national security, Tinubu said his administration remains committed to tackling terrorism, banditry, and criminality across the country.
He disclosed that Nigerian forces, working with international partners including the United States, carried out decisive operations against terrorist targets in parts of the northwest in December, with sustained military actions continuing across affected regions.
The president reiterated his support for decentralised policing with safeguards, alongside properly regulated forest guards, as part of efforts to strengthen internal security.
Inclusive growth, social development
Tinubu said 2026 would mark a more robust phase of economic growth, with a renewed focus on grassroots development through the Renewed Hope Ward Development Programme.
He said the initiative aims to bring at least 10 million Nigerians into productive economic activity by empowering 1,000 people in each of the country’s 8,809 wards, particularly through agriculture, trade, mining, and food processing.
The president added that investments in roads, power, ports, railways, healthcare, education, and agriculture would continue without interruption.
Call for unity
Tinubu urged Nigerians to embrace unity, patriotism, and shared responsibility in nation-building, stressing that economic reforms must be supported by collective resolve and accountability.
He wished citizens a peaceful and prosperous new year, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to national stability and inclusive prosperity.
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