Amah Alphonsus Amaonye, AWC Economy Desk, Abuja
The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has projected a robust 4.49 per cent economic growth for Nigeria in 2026, signalling rising optimism about the country’s macroeconomic trajectory as reforms begin to gain traction.
The projection forms part of the apex bank’s 2026 Macroeconomic Outlook, shared via its official social media platforms, where the CBN outlined 10 key takeaways shaping expectations for the year ahead. According to the Bank, Nigeria’s growth could exceed 4 per cent if the current momentum of economic reforms, investments and policy discipline is sustained.
The CBN attributed the positive outlook to ongoing structural reforms, improved investor confidence, and stronger alignment between public and private sector activities. It stressed that sustaining this growth path would depend largely on effective coordination between monetary and fiscal authorities, particularly in managing inflationary pressures and maintaining exchange rate stability.
The apex bank noted that closer policy harmony would help stabilise prices, strengthen the naira, and reinforce macroeconomic confidence—critical factors for long-term growth and job creation. It also underscored the importance of consistency in policy implementation to consolidate recent gains and shield the economy from external shocks.
Analysts say the outlook aligns with broader government projections under the Renewed Hope economic framework, which prioritises macroeconomic stability, investment-led growth and inclusive development.
With reforms continuing across key sectors and policy coordination placed at the centre of economic management, the CBN’s outlook paints a cautiously optimistic picture of a Nigerian economy on a firmer and more resilient growth path heading into 2026.
