AWC Statehouse Desk
The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining ongoing economic and structural reforms, declaring that Nigeria has reached a defining moment where consistency, patience and national unity are critical to securing long-term prosperity.
This position was articulated by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, fnipr, in a New Year policy reflection titled “A Defining Moment for Nigeria: Why Staying the Course Matters,” published on January 4, 2026.
Addressing widespread public concerns over food prices, security and economic hardship, the minister acknowledged that the last 31 months have been marked by tough but necessary reforms, including the removal of fuel subsidies and exchange-rate adjustments, aimed at breaking Nigeria’s long-standing cycle of economic stagnation.
According to Idris, early indicators now show that the reform path is yielding results. He noted that December 2025 marked the 13th consecutive month of business expansion, alongside improving GDP growth, declining inflation and stronger external reserves. He added that multinational investors are once again reassessing Nigeria with renewed confidence.
“These are not abstract statistics,” the minister said, “but the groundwork for lasting improvements in the daily lives of Nigerians.”
Beyond macroeconomic indicators, Idris emphasised that the administration is deliberately layering people-focused interventions on the foundation of economic stability. He cited initiatives such as the student loan programme (NELFUND), the Presidential CNG Initiative to reduce transport costs, and youth-focused programmes including LEEP, Jubilee Fellows and 3MTT, all aimed at job creation, skills development and opportunity expansion.
In agriculture, the minister highlighted the historic recapitalisation of the Bank of Agriculture and new mechanisation programmes designed to tackle food insecurity at its roots. On infrastructure, he listed flagship projects such as the Coastal Highway, Sokoto–Badagry Expressway, AKK Gas Pipeline and new rail lines, describing them as strategic efforts to integrate the economy and lower the cost of doing business nationwide.
On security, Idris said the Federal Government is rolling out a new security architecture, backed by increased recruitment, improved equipment and enhanced international cooperation. He referenced recent successful rescue operations in Kebbi and Niger states as evidence of a renewed offensive against terrorism and banditry.
Acknowledging public fatigue and anxiety, the minister assured Nigerians that the government is accelerating efforts to convert reforms into tangible, widespread relief, noting that the 2026 Budget of Consolidation, Renewed Resilience and Shared Prosperity is designed to deepen gains and fast-track inclusive growth.
Idris stressed that nation-building is a shared responsibility, calling on citizens to engage constructively, protect public assets, reject disinformation and strengthen civic trust, while pledging that his ministry will remain a transparent and accountable bridge between government and the people.
He concluded by reaffirming President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s leadership style, describing it as calm, decisive and reform-driven, with recent diplomatic engagements, particularly with the United States, cited as examples of turning challenges into opportunities.
“We have laid a new foundation,” Idris said. “Now, we must build the house together.”
He wished Nigerians a peaceful, productive and hopeful year ahead.
