President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has said, his government is focused on building a “more robust, resilient, sustainable economy” in 2026.
He made the statement in his new year message to Nigerians on Thursday 1 January, 2026.
Welcomimg fellow compatriots to 2026, President Tinubu said, even in the presence of “persistent global economic headwinds”, Nigeria “recorded tangible and measurable gains” economically.
The President said, Nigeria “closed 2025 on a strong note”, and is “focused on continuing to build a resilient, sustainable economy” in 2026.
In his new year message, titled ‘2026: The Beginning of a more robust phase of economic growth’, to Nigerians, President Tinubu wrote: “Fellow Compatriots,
“I welcome you all to 2026, with gratitude to God and confidence in our collective resolve that this new year will be a more prosperous one for our nation, our citizens, and all who call Nigeria home.
“During 2025, we sustained the momentum on our major reforms. Despite persistent global economic headwinds, we recorded tangible and measurable gains, particularly in the economy.
“Economic Progress and Outlook
“As we enter 2026, our focus is on consolidating these gains and continuing to build a resilient, sustainable, inclusive, and growth-oriented economy.
“We closed 2025 on a strong note. Despite the policies to fight inflation, Nigeria recorded a robust GDP growth each quarter, with annualised growth expected to exceed 4 per cent for the year.
“We maintained trade surpluses and achieved greater exchange rate stability. Inflation declined steadily and reached below 15 per cent, in line with our target. In 2026, we are determined to reduce inflation further and ensure that the benefits of reform reach every Nigerian household.
“Fiscal Discipline and Tax Reform
“A few days ago, I presented the 2026 Appropriation Bill to the National Assembly. In that address, I emphasised that our administration has implemented critical reforms that are laying a solid foundation for long-term stability and prosperity. With patience, fiscal discipline, and unity of purpose, Nigeria will emerge in 2026 stronger and better positioned for sustained growth.
“We are also confronting the challenge of multiple taxation across all tiers of government. I commend states that have aligned with the national tax harmonisation agenda by adopting harmonised tax laws to reduce the excessive burden of taxes, levies, and fees on our people and on basic consumption.
“The new year marks a critical phase in implementing our tax reforms, designed to build a fair, competitive, and robust fiscal foundation for Nigeria.
“Security and National Stability
“Our nation continues to confront security threats from criminal and terrorist elements determined to disrupt our way of life. In collaboration with international partners, including the United States, decisive actions were taken against terrorist targets in parts of the Northwest on December 24.
“Our Armed Forces have since sustained operations against terror networks and criminal strongholds across the Northwest and Northeast.
“In 2026, our security and intelligence agencies will deepen cooperation with regional and global partners to eliminate all threats to national security. We remain committed to protecting lives, property, and the territorial integrity of our country.
“Inclusive Growth and Social Development
“The new year marks the beginning of a more robust phase of economic growth, with tangible improvements in the lives of our people.
“We will accelerate the implementation of the Renewed Hope Ward Development Programme, aiming to bring at least 10 million Nigerians into productive economic activity by empowering at least 1,000 people in each of the 8,809 wards across the country.
“Through agriculture, trade, food processing, and mining, we will stimulate local economies and expand grassroots opportunities.
“A Call to Unity and Responsibility
“To achieve our objectives in 2026, we must all play our part. Nation-building is a shared responsibility. We must stand together in unity and purpose, uphold patriotism, and serve our country with honour and integrity in our respective roles.
“Fellow Nigerians, I wish you all a peaceful, productive, and prosperous New Year. May God continue to bless and protect our beloved country,keep our troops safe and destroy the enemies bent on disrupting our national peace, security and stability.
“Happy New Year to you all.”
Replies to President Tinubu’s New Year Message to Nigerians:
@PiLordd wrote: “As long as garri still cost
“Sir! You’re not working”
@Riiyikeh wrote: “Despite the reforms, the average Nigerian still faces rising costs and economic hardship, with little improvement in everyday living standards”
@Energycrypt wrote: “Widen the tax net and chop it alone with no tangible outcomes”
@addlinbaby wrote: “January 1st 2025, you announced the removal of fuel subsidy, we would like to know how the money saved have been invested to improve the lives of Nigerians.”
@Everypolitics1 wrote: “How many Nigerians were lifted out of poverty in 2025 and what evidence supports the claim that reforms are benefiting the ordinary Nigerian ?”
