Nigeria: President Bola Tinubu’s New Year message to Nigerians (2026)

By Zuleihat Owuiye, Mamos Nigeria

Bola Ahmed Tinubu declared 2026 as the dawn of a “more robust phase of economic growth” for Nigeria — a year that will translate policy reforms into tangible benefits for ordinary citizens.

Speaking from the Presidential Villa, the Head of State extended warm greetings to all Nigerians and thanked God for the nation’s resilience through challenging times. He reminded the public that the reforms initiated since 2026— though painful in the short term — are now laying the foundation for sustainable, inclusive prosperity.

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.”

Nigeria recorded robust GDP growth each quarter, with annualised growth projected to exceed 4 % — a significant rebound after years of stagnation.

Inflation Control Headline inflation fell steadily, closing 2025 below 15 % (down from 27 % in 2026).

Foreign Reserves Reserves stood at $45.4 billion as of January 1 2025 — a buffer against external shocks and a vote of confidence in the naira.

Investor Confidence FDI surged to $720 million in Q3 2026, up from $90 million in the previous quarter, signaling renewed global trust in Nigeria’s economic direction.

The Nigerian Exchange outperformed peers with a 48.12 %gain in 2025, reinforcing market optimism.

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 ordinary Nigerians.”

 In December 2025, Nigerian forces — in collaboration with international partners  conducted precision strikes against terrorist cells in the Northwest, with U.S. drones assisting in targeting ISIS affiliates in Sokoto.

The Armed Forces have intensified operations in the Northwest and Northeast, disrupting terror networks and reclaiming communities.

A proposal for decentralised policing supported by regulated forest guards and strict accountability measures, is under consideration to improve local security response.

We remain committed to protecting lives, property, and the territorial integrity of our country. Our security and intelligence agencies will deepen cooperation with regional and global partners to eliminate all threats to national security.”

The President urged all Nigerians to embrace unity, patience, and civic responsibility in 2026. He called on state governors to join the tax harmonisation agenda, reduce bureaucratic bottlenecks, and prioritize infrastructure development.

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.

President Tinubu closed his address by praying for peace, prosperity, and divine protection for Nigeria. He expressed confidence that with disciplined leadership, collective effort, and faith in God, 2026 will be a transformative year — one that sets the nation firmly on the path to becoming a top‑10 global economy by 2030.

Inflation Control:

Headline inflation fell steadily, closing 2025 below *15 %* (down from 27 % in 2023).

 Reserves stood at $45.4 billionas of December 29, 2025 — a buffer against external shocks and a vote of confidence in the naira.

Investor Confidence FDI surged to $720 million* in Q3 2025, up from $90 million in the previous quarter, signaling renewed global trust in Nigeria’s economic direction.

The Nigerian Exchange outperformed peers with a 48.12 %gain in 2025, reinforcing market optimism.

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 ordinary Nigerians.”

A renewed commitment to bring inflation down to single‑digit levels, easing the cost‑of‑living burden on families.

Harmonising federal, state, and local taxes to eliminate multiple taxation and create a more business‑friendly environment.

Infrastructure Investment Accelerating projects in roads, power, ports, railways, airports, and digital infrastructure to unlock economic potential across all sectors.

Agriculture & Food Security Expanding support for small‑holder farmers, modernising storage and logistics, and boosting agro‑processing to reduce import dependence.

Youth Empowerment Scaling up the Renewed Hope Ward Development Programme targeting 10 million Nigerians  1,000 per ward with skills training, micro‑loans, and job creation in agriculture, trade, and mining.

We are determined to reduce inflation further and ensure that the benefits of reform reach every Nigerian household.”

*Security: A Non‑Negotiable Priority*

President Tinubu acknowledged the persistent threats from terrorism, banditry, and kidnapping, but emphasized that decisive action is being taken:

 In December 2025, Nigerian forces — in collaboration with international partners conducted precision strikes against terrorist cells in the Northwest, with U.S. drones assisting in targeting ISIS affiliates in Sokoto.

The Armed Forces have intensified operations in the Northwest and Northeast, disrupting terror networks and reclaiming communities.

A proposal for *decentralised policing*, supported by regulated forest guards and strict accountability measures, is under consideration to improve local security response.

We remain committed to protecting lives, property, and the territorial integrity of our country. Our security and intelligence agencies will deepen cooperation with regional and global partners to eliminate all threats to national security.”

The President urged all Nigerians to embrace unity, patience, and civic responsibility in 2026. He called on state governors to join the tax harmonisation agenda, reduce bureaucratic bottlenecks, and prioritize infrastructure development.

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.”

President Tinubu closed his address by praying for peace, prosperity, and divine protection for Nigeria. He expressed confidence that with disciplined leadership, collective effort, and faith in God, 2026 will be a transformative year one that sets the nation firmly on the path to becoming a top‑10 global economy by 2030.