President Bola Tinubu has projected stronger economic growth and declining inflation in 2026, saying Nigeria is entering a “more robust phase” after a year of tough fiscal reforms.
In his nationwide New Year message on Thursday, Tinubu pointed to moderating inflation, a steadier exchange rate, and rising foreign investment as signs that his administration’s “fiscal reset” is beginning to pay off.
“As we enter 2026, our focus is on consolidating these gains,” he said, adding that the goal is a “resilient, sustainable, inclusive, and growth-oriented economy.”
Tinubu highlighted several positive indicators from 2025. He said annual GDP growth is expected to exceed 4%, while inflation has trended downward to below 15%. He also noted that foreign reserves had grown to $45.4 billion by late December, helping protect the naira.
Investor confidence appears to be rebounding. Tinubu said Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) rose to $720 million in the third quarter of 2025, up from just $90 million in the previous quarter.
A major focus of his address was tax reform. Tinubu commended states that have adopted the national tax harmonisation agenda, aimed at reducing multiple levies on businesses and citizens.
“The new year marks a critical phase in implementing our tax reforms,” he said, noting that the reforms are meant to build a fair and competitive fiscal foundation.
On security, Tinubu said joint operations with international partners have yielded decisive results. He reaffirmed support for decentralised policing and regulated forest guards to fight banditry and terrorism.
For social development, the president announced an acceleration of the Renewed Hope Ward Development Programme. The initiative aims to empower 10 million Nigerians through economic activities such as agriculture, trade, and mining — targeting 1,000 beneficiaries in each of the country’s 8,809 wards.
Acknowledging the hardships many Nigerians faced during the reform period, Tinubu called for unity and patience.
“The path of reform is never easy, but it is necessary,” he said. “With patience, fiscal discipline, and unity of purpose, Nigeria will emerge in 2026 stronger and better positioned for sustained growth.”
