President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has declared 2026 a decisive year for Nigeria's economic transformation, committing his administration to intensifying reforms, harmonising the nation's complex tax system, and driving inclusive growth that benefits every citizen.
A Decisive Phase for Economic Renewal
In his New Year goodwill message delivered on 1 January 2026, President Tinubu framed the coming year as a critical juncture. He stated that the foundational economic reforms initiated in 2025, which focused on a fundamental fiscal reset and achieving macroeconomic stability, are now yielding measurable positive outcomes. The President acknowledged the persistence of global economic challenges but expressed confidence that the domestic policy direction is correct.
The administration's plan for 2026 is to build upon these foundations, ensuring that households, businesses, and investors across Nigeria begin to feel the tangible benefits of the government's policies. Tinubu emphasised that the goal is to move from stabilisation to widespread, shared prosperity.
Tackling Multiple Taxation and Building Fiscal Space
A key pillar of the 2026 agenda is confronting the long-standing issue of multiple taxation. President Tinubu identified the overlapping taxes, levies, and fees imposed by different tiers of government as a major drag on productivity and a heavy burden on basic consumption for Nigerians.
He praised the states that have already taken steps to align with the national tax harmonisation drive by enacting unified tax laws. The ongoing reform, he explained, aims to create a fairer, more competitive, and robust fiscal framework. The revenue generated from this streamlined system is intended to fund crucial infrastructure and social investments that drive collective progress.
Tinubu also projected that continued efforts to ease inflationary pressures and moderate interest rates would free up more fiscal resources. This increased space, he noted, would be directed into productive investments, particularly in critical infrastructure and human capital development, thereby strengthening the economy's capacity for job creation and sustained expansion.
Consolidating Gains for Long-Term Stability
The President pointed to several improved macroeconomic indicators as evidence that Nigeria is on the right track. He cited strong GDP growth, greater stability in the exchange rate, rising foreign reserves, and a renewal of investor confidence as signs of building momentum.
"Our focus in 2026 is to consolidate the gains we have made and continue to build a resilient, sustainable, inclusive and growth-oriented economy," Tinubu affirmed. He called for continued unity and support from all Nigerians, reminding citizens that nation-building is a shared responsibility.
Concluding his address, President Tinubu wished all Nigerians a peaceful, productive, and prosperous New Year, expressing optimism that the country is firmly on course for long-term stability and inclusive growth that leaves no one behind.
