The Federal Government has said the 2026 budget is designed to consolidate the gains of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s ongoing economic reforms.
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, stated this in an op-ed published on Monday, where he argued that the reforms, though challenging, are already yielding positive results.
According to Idris, the “Budget of Consolidation, Renewed Resilience and Shared Prosperity” is aimed at strengthening policies that are working and accelerating the delivery of tangible benefits to Nigerians. He described the budget as a commitment to stability, growth and shared prosperity.
He acknowledged that the past 31 months have been difficult but said the reforms were necessary to reverse years of economic stagnation and lay the foundation for long-term stability.
The minister said early signs of recovery were emerging, including increased business activity, improving investor confidence, easing inflation and stronger external reserves. “These are not just numbers,” he said, noting that they represent real improvements in Nigerians’ daily lives.
Idris stressed the importance of transparency and public trust, reaffirming the government’s commitment to clear communication on policies, challenges and progress.
He highlighted interventions aimed at easing the cost of living and expanding opportunities, including the student loan scheme (NELFUND), the presidential CNG initiative, and youth-focused programmes such as LEEP, the Jubilee Fellows Programme and the 3MTT initiative.
On food security, he cited efforts to recapitalise the Bank of Agriculture and expand mechanised farming, while also pointing to major infrastructure projects like the Coastal Highway, Sokoto–Badagry Expressway, AKK Gas Pipeline and new rail developments.
The minister said security reforms were being strengthened through improved recruitment, equipment and international cooperation, referencing the recent rescue of abducted students in Kebbi and Niger States.
