Our Reporter, Abuja
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening national security, accelerating economic growth, and promoting unity as Nigeria enters the 2026 fiscal year.
In his New Year address to the nation on Thursday, the President acknowledged the challenges associated with ongoing reforms but said they remain necessary to secure long-term stability and prosperity. He stressed that economic progress must go hand in hand with peace and security.
Tinubu disclosed that Nigeria continues to face threats from criminal and terrorist groups, particularly in the Northwest and Northeast. He confirmed that, in collaboration with international partners including the United States, decisive actions were carried out against terrorist targets in parts of the Northwest on December 24. According to him, the Armed Forces have since sustained operations against terror networks and criminal strongholds in affected regions.
Looking ahead, the President said security and intelligence agencies would deepen cooperation with regional and global partners in 2026 to eliminate threats to national security. He reiterated his support for a decentralised policing system, backed by appropriate safeguards and accountability, as well as the deployment of properly regulated forest guards to combat terrorism, banditry, and related crimes.
On the economy, Tinubu announced that 2026 would mark a more robust phase of growth, with a focus on inclusive development and measurable improvements in citizens’ livelihoods. He said the government would accelerate the Renewed Hope Ward Development Programme, which aims to bring at least 10 million Nigerians into productive economic activity by empowering no fewer than 1,000 people in each of the country’s 8,809 wards.
The President said agriculture, trade, food processing, and mining would be prioritised to stimulate local economies and expand grassroots opportunities. He also pledged continued investment in modernising infrastructure, including roads, power, ports, railways, airports, pipelines, healthcare, education, and agriculture, noting that all ongoing projects would proceed without interruption to strengthen food security and improve quality of life.
Calling for national unity, Tinubu urged Nigerians to embrace patriotism, integrity, and shared responsibility in nation-building. He said achieving the government’s objectives in 2026 would require collective effort and a renewed commitment to being better citizens and stewards of the country.
“I wish you all a peaceful, productive, and prosperous New Year,” the President said, offering prayers for national peace and for the safety of Nigeria’s troops.
