Tinubu Highlights Economic Gains in 2026 New Year Address

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu addressed Nigerians on January 1, 2026, expressing optimism for a prosperous year ahead as his administration's economic reforms begin to yield tangible benefits. In his New Year message, Tinubu highlighted 2025's achievements, including robust quarterly GDP growth exceeding 4 percent annually, a decline in inflation to below 15 percent, improved trade balances, and greater exchange rate stability, despite global economic challenges.

Tinubu credited these gains to sustained reforms initiated since 2023, such as fiscal resets and orthodox monetary policies under Central Bank of Nigeria Governor Yemi Cardoso. Foreign reserves reached $45.4 billion by late December 2025, providing a buffer against external shocks, while the Nigerian Stock Exchange recorded a 48.12 percent gain, outperforming regional peers. Foreign direct investment surged to $720 million in the third quarter of 2025, up from $90 million the previous quarter, signaling renewed investor confidence affirmed by global rating agencies like Moody's, Fitch, and Standard & Poor's.

Business leader Femi Otedola praised Tinubu's leadership and Cardoso's tenure, describing the governor as Nigeria's...