|By Chinwendu Nwani
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has projected 2026 as a decisive year for Nigeria’s economic recovery, improved living standards and enhanced security, assuring citizens that the difficult reforms implemented by his administration are beginning to yield measurable gains.
In his New Year goodwill message on Wednesday, the President acknowledged the sacrifices made by Nigerians over the past year, stressing that the economy showed clear signs of stabilisation in 2025 despite global economic headwinds.
Tinubu said Nigeria recorded steady economic growth throughout the year, alongside improved exchange rate stability and a gradual easing of inflation, which he noted dropped below 15 per cent by the end of 2025. He expressed confidence that the benefits of the reforms would become more visible to ordinary Nigerians in the months ahead.
According to him, economic growth is projected to exceed four per cent annually, while the Nigerian Stock Exchange posted one of its strongest performances in years, rising by over 48 per cent and drawing renewed investor confidence.
The President also highlighted improvements in the country’s external reserves, which climbed to $45.4 billion by late December 2025, providing stronger buffers for the naira against external shocks. He added that foreign direct investment surged in the third quarter of the year, attributing the increase to growing trust in Nigeria’s economic direction.
On fiscal management, Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to discipline and fairness, particularly in addressing the burden of multiple taxation on citizens and small businesses. He commended states that have adopted harmonised tax systems and disclosed that tax reforms in 2026 would prioritise easing pressure on basic consumption while boosting revenue sustainably.
Addressing security concerns, the President said Nigerian security forces, working with international partners, intensified coordinated operations against terrorist groups in parts of the Northwest toward the end of 2025 and sustained pressure on criminal networks across affected regions. He assured that security agencies would deepen cooperation locally and internationally, while efforts toward decentralised policing and properly regulated forest guards continue as long-term solutions.
On social development, Tinubu announced plans to fast-track the Renewed Hope Ward Development Programme in 2026, with a target of empowering at least 10 million Nigerians through agriculture, trade, mining and small-scale processing at the community level.
He also pledged uninterrupted execution of key infrastructure projects spanning roads, power, rail, ports, healthcare, education and agriculture, aimed at boosting food security and improving everyday quality of life.
Calling for unity and collective responsibility, the President urged Nigerians to remain patient, hopeful and committed to national progress, noting that nation-building requires the joint effort of government and citizens.
Tinubu wished Nigerians a peaceful, productive and prosperous New Year, while praying for the safety of security personnel and lasting peace across the country.
