Abuja, January 1, 2026 – In a heartfelt New Year's address delivered on Thursday, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu welcomed Nigerians into 2026 with renewed hope, declaring the year as the beginning of a "more robust phase of economic growth." The President expressed gratitude to God and confidence in the nation's collective resolve, assuring citizens that ongoing reforms are yielding tangible results despite global challenges.
Reflecting on 2025, President Tinubu highlighted the administration's sustained momentum on major reforms, including a fiscal reset that drove steady economic progress. "Despite persistent global economic headwinds, we recorded tangible and measurable gains, particularly in the economy," he stated. "These achievements reaffirm our belief that the difficult but necessary reforms we embarked upon are moving us in the right direction with more concrete results on the horizon for the ordinary Nigerian."
The President painted a positive picture of Nigeria's economic performance in 2025, noting robust GDP growth in each quarter despite anti-inflation measures. Annualised growth is projected to exceed 4 per cent, bolstered by maintained trade surpluses and greater exchange rate stability. Inflation, a major concern for households, declined steadily to below 15 per cent, aligning with government targets. "In 2026, we are determined to reduce inflation further and ensure that the benefits of reform reach every Nigerian household," Tinubu pledged.
Capital markets also shone brightly, with the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NGX) posting a robust 48.12 per cent gain, outperforming many global peers and extending a bullish trend that began in mid-2023. Foreign reserves stood strong at $45.4 billion as of December 29, 2025, providing a substantial buffer for the naira amid sound monetary policy.
Investor confidence received a significant boost, evidenced by foreign direct investment (FDI) surging to $720 million in the third quarter of 2025—a sharp rise from $90 million in the previous quarter. This rebound, applauded by global credit rating agencies like Moody’s, Fitch, and Standard & Poor’s, signals renewed faith in Nigeria's economic trajectory.
On fiscal discipline, President Tinubu referenced the recent presentation of the 2026 Appropriation Bill to the National Assembly, emphasizing reforms that lay a foundation for long-term stability. As inflation and interest rates moderate, he anticipates expanded fiscal space for investments in infrastructure and human capital. Addressing multiple taxation, he commended states aligning with national harmonisation efforts to ease burdens on citizens and businesses.
The new year will mark a critical implementation phase for tax reforms aimed at creating a fairer, more competitive system. These changes seek sustainable revenue growth, reduced distortions, and enhanced funding for infrastructure and social programs, ultimately delivering shared prosperity.
Security remained a key focus, with the President acknowledging ongoing threats from terrorists and criminals. He cited decisive joint operations with partners, including the United States, against targets in the Northwest on December 24, 2025, and sustained efforts in the Northeast. In 2026, deeper cooperation with regional and global allies will aim to eliminate all national security threats.
Tinubu reiterated support for decentralised policing with safeguards, complemented by regulated forest guards, to tackle terrorism and banditry effectively. "We remain committed to protecting lives, property, and the territorial integrity of our country," he affirmed.
Looking ahead to inclusive growth, the President outlined plans to accelerate the Renewed Hope Ward Development Programme, targeting economic empowerment for at least 10 million Nigerians by supporting 1,000 individuals in each of the 8,809 wards through sectors like agriculture, trade, food processing, and mining.
Infrastructure modernisation will continue uninterrupted, encompassing roads, power, ports, railways, airports, pipelines, healthcare, education, and agriculture to bolster food security and quality of life.
In a call for unity, Tinubu stressed that nation-building is a shared responsibility requiring patriotism, integrity, and collective effort. "Let us resolve to be better citizens, better neighbours, and better stewards of our nation," he urged.
Concluding on a prayerful note, the President wished Nigerians a peaceful, productive, and prosperous New Year, invoking divine blessings for the country, protection for troops, and defeat of disruptive forces.
The address, widely broadcast and published across media outlets, has sparked discussions on the path ahead. While the President's optimistic outlook resonates with supporters of the reforms, critics continue to monitor implementation, particularly tax changes set for deeper effect in 2026.
As Nigeria steps into the new year, Tinubu's message underscores a vision of resilience and progress, rooted in patience, discipline, and unified purpose.
