President Bola Tinubu has assured Nigerians that 2026 will usher in a more prosperous year, with sustained economic growth, improved security, and continued reforms.
In his New Year message on Thursday, Tinubu said his administration will consolidate the gains of 2025 and continue building a resilient, inclusive, and growth-oriented economy.
> “During 2025, we maintained momentum on key reforms, executed a fiscal reset, and recorded steady economic progress. Despite global economic challenges, we achieved measurable gains, particularly in the economy,” the President said.
Consolidating Gains
Tinubu highlighted that Nigeria ended 2025 on a strong note, achieving quarterly GDP growth with an annualised rate expected to exceed 4%. Trade surpluses were maintained, inflation declined to below 15%, and the Nigerian Stock Exchange posted a 48.12% gain, continuing its bullish trend from mid-2023.
He also noted 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 Q3 2025 from $90 million the previous quarter, reflecting growing investor confidence.
Tax Reform
Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to tax reform, including harmonisation across all levels of government to reduce excessive levies and fees. He said the reforms aim to build a fair and competitive fiscal system capable of financing infrastructure and social investments.
National Security
Acknowledging ongoing security challenges, the President stated that Nigeria would strengthen collaboration with regional and international partners to counter terrorism and banditry. He praised recent operations against terrorist networks in the Northwest and Northeast and reiterated support for a decentralised policing system with accountability safeguards.
Infrastructure and Economic Inclusion
The President said 2026 will mark a new phase of economic growth, with the Renewed Hope Ward Development Programme set to bring 10 million Nigerians into productive activity, empowering at least 1,000 people in each of the 8,809 wards nationwide.
> “Through agriculture, trade, food processing, and mining, we will stimulate local economies. We will continue investing in roads, power, ports, railways, airports, pipelines, healthcare, education, and agriculture to improve food security and quality of life. All ongoing projects will continue without interruption.”
A Call to Unity and Responsibility
Tinubu urged Nigerians to contribute to national development by upholding unity, patriotism, and integrity.
“Let us resolve to be better citizens, better neighbours, and better stewards of our nation,” he said, concluding with wishes for a peaceful, productive, and prosperous 2026.
