FG eyes sustainable economic growth, stability in 2026
By Seun Ibiyemi
The Federal Government through the minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris hasaid that the Tinubu administration is focused on consolidating economic gains from 2025 and driving sustainable growth in 2026.
This even as he highlighted the government’s economic achievements and plans during the Federal Government’s end-of-year media briefing in Abuja on Monday.
According to Idris, 2025 was largely devoted to stabilising the economy and consolidating reforms across critical sectors, while 2026 will focus on translating those gains into increased productivity, investment, and national development.
“The journey of 2025 was one of reinforcing foundations. The mission of 2026 is to build a secure, competitive, and prosperous Nigeria on that base,” Idris said on behalf of President Bola Tinubu.
Key economic indicators cited included a 3.98 per cent GDP growth in the third quarter, inflation declining for eight consecutive months to 14.45 per cent in November, external reserves of about $44.56 billion, and a trade surplus of N6.69 trillion.
Idris also noted progress in sectors such as power, infrastructure financing, agriculture, and youth empowerment, which have contributed to growing investor confidence.
The minister highlighted the proposed N58.18 trillion 2026 Appropriation Bill, describing it as a budget of consolidation and growth.
Of this, N26.08 trillion is allocated to capital expenditure to accelerate infrastructure development, while defence and security received N5.41 trillion, reflecting the government’s aim to secure an environment conducive to economic activity.
Idris also pointed to Nigeria’s successful exit from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) Grey List, an oversubscribed Eurobond issuance, and strengthened international partnerships including a five-year, $5.1 billion health cooperation agreement with the United States as signals of the country’s improving economic outlook.
Despite these achievements, opposition parties have criticised the government’s economic assessment, arguing that the reality on the ground does not fully reflect the administration’s claims.