Information Minister Mohammed Idris has described Nigeria’s 2026 budget as a strategic tool to consolidate the achievements of President Bola Tinubu’s reform agenda, which he says is already producing positive outcomes.
“Our ‘Budget of Consolidation, Renewed Resilience and Shared Prosperity’ is essential. It reflects our commitment to reinforce what is working, solidify gains, and ensure that shared prosperity reaches more Nigerians, faster,” Idris said in a statement on Tuesday.
The minister explained that the past 31 months have involved difficult but necessary reforms, starting with key economic decisions aimed at ending prolonged stagnation and building a more stable future.
He pointed to early signs of progress, including expanding business activity, rising investor confidence, easing inflation, and strengthening Nigeria’s external reserves.
“These are not just statistics. They represent the foundation for meaningful improvements in the daily lives of Nigerians,” Idris said.
Beyond economic measures, the minister emphasized the need for trust and transparency between the government and citizens. He reiterated the federal government’s commitment to keeping Nigerians informed about its actions, challenges, and progress.
Idris highlighted specific interventions aimed at directly improving lives, such as the student loan programme and the presidential CNG initiative to lower transport costs. Youth-focused initiatives—including LEEP, the Jubilee Fellows Programme, and the 3MTT initiative—were also cited, alongside efforts to address food insecurity through the recapitalisation of the Bank of Agriculture and expanded mechanisation.
On infrastructure, he mentioned major projects like the coastal highway, Sokoto–Badagry expressway, the AKK Gas Pipeline, and new rail developments designed to reduce costs and enhance national connectivity.
Regarding security, Idris noted that the government is boosting recruitment, equipment, and international cooperation, citing the recent rescue of abducted students in Kebbi and Niger as evidence of renewed focus and commitment.
The minister also said the government is determined to accelerate relief delivery through ongoing reforms and called on Nigerians to view nation-building as a shared responsibility—encouraging citizens to engage constructively, protect public assets, and reject misinformation.
Idris praised President Tinubu for decisive leadership, highlighting recent engagements with the United States that strengthened bilateral relations and supported Nigeria’s anti-insurgency efforts.
“As the new year begins, I urge Nigerians to focus on the future. We have laid a new foundation. Now, we must build the house together,” he concluded.
(NAN)
