2026: 10 Key Points From Tinubu’s New Year Speech

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has ushered Nigerians into 2026 with a message of optimism, reform consolidation, and renewed commitment to national growth, security, and unity.

In his New Year address on January 1, 2026, the President highlighted key achievements recorded in 2025 and outlined major priorities for the year ahead. Below are 10 key takeaways from President Tinubu’s speech:

1. Optimism for a Prosperous 2026

President Tinubu expressed gratitude to God for bringing Nigerians into the new year, voicing confidence that 2026 will be more prosperous for the nation and its people, anchored on collective resolve and sustained reforms.

2. Sustained Economic Reforms and Progress

The President said his administration maintained momentum on critical reforms in 2025, including a fiscal reset that delivered measurable economic gains despite global economic challenges.

3. Strong GDP Growth and Inflation Control

Nigeria recorded robust GDP growth across all quarters in 2025, with annual growth projected to exceed 4 percent. Inflation, he said, declined steadily to below 15 percent, meeting government targets.

4. Improved Exchange Rate Stability and Trade Surplus

Tinubu noted that Nigeria maintained trade surpluses and achieved greater exchange rate stability, positioning the economy on a stronger and more resilient footing.

5. Stock Market and Foreign Reserves Surge

The Nigerian Stock Exchange outperformed many global peers with a 48.12 percent gain in 2025. Foreign reserves also rose to $45.4 billion by December 29, providing a strong buffer against external shocks.

6. Rising Foreign Direct Investment (FDI)

According to the President, FDI rose significantly to $720 million in Q3 2025 from $90 million in the previous quarter, reflecting renewed investor confidence backed by positive assessments from global credit rating agencies.

7. Tax Reforms and Fiscal Discipline

Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to fiscal discipline and tax harmonisation, aimed at reducing multiple taxation and building a fair, competitive, and sustainable revenue system to fund infrastructure and social investments.

8. Renewed Focus on Security and Decentralised Policing

The President said Nigeria would intensify security operations against terrorism and banditry in 2026, deepen international cooperation, and pursue decentralised policing and regulated forest guards to enhance national security.

9. Inclusive Growth Through Grassroots Empowerment

Tinubu announced plans to accelerate the Renewed Hope Ward Development Programme, targeting the empowerment of at least 10 million Nigerians through agriculture, trade, mining, and local economic activities across all wards.

10. Call for Unity, Patriotism, and Shared Responsibility

The President urged Nigerians to embrace unity, patriotism, and integrity, stressing that nation-building is a collective responsibility essential for achieving the country’s development goals in 2026.

President Tinubu concluded by wishing Nigerians a peaceful, productive, and prosperous New Year, while praying for the safety of the nation’s troops and the continued protection of Nigeria’s peace, security, and stability.